How A Small Business Attorney Can Help You Build Your Chicago Business
Starting a small business in Chicago is not an easy feat. The spirit of entrepreneurship is alive in our city, but the pathway to succeeding often goes through many legal complications that can make or break your business. The Business Law Group has learned about some of the unique challenges small business owners go through when it comes to forming an entity, navigating employment laws, and protecting intellectual property. Accordingly, we at “The Chicago Business Lawyers®” are here to provide you with the legal guidance that you need to confidently establish and grow your business.
From startup to growth and expansion, a small business lawyer is indispensable at every stage of your business life cycle. We will ensure that your business is legally protected and positioned for long-term success. Here’s how a small business attorney from the Business Law Group can help build your Chicago business.
1. Entity Formation And Selection Of The Proper Business Structure
One of the very first and most important decisions that the business owner needs to make is to determine what legal structure best fits the business. The structure you choose—a sole proprietorship, an LLC, an S-Corp, or a C-Corp—will have serious legal and financial consequences for your company. Each option creates different advantages and liabilities; therefore, the choice of business structure should be determined with regard to the goals of the business and personal asset protection.
As lawyers for small businesses, we guide clients through entity formation by identifying and advising on the selection of the best structure to achieve the goals of their business. We prepare and file appropriate documents with the Illinois Secretary of State on behalf of our clients, draft operating agreements, and advise a business through compliance with applicable regulations under the Illinois Business Corporation Act (805 ILCS 5/1 et seq). This will provide a good, solid foundation for your business and enable you to grow it.
2. Drafting And Reviewing Contracts
Essentially, contracts are vital in any business. Whether in negotiating with vendors, employees, or clients, clear and enforceable contracts protect your business interests. A poorly drafted contract can open your business to disputes and/or litigation; therefore, your contracts should be reviewed and drafted with the involvement of an experienced attorney.
We assist in drafting and reviewing various forms of contracts, such as service agreements, nondisclosure agreements, employment contracts, and partnership agreements. We will ensure your contracts are legally valid, equitable, and protective of the interests surrounding your business. In the event of a dispute, for which we hope there is not, our team is prepared to represent you through the contract negotiation and litigation process to protect your business.
3. Employment Law Compliance And Workplace Policies
As your business grows, so does your workforce. Employing workers can be a milestone for any small business, but with this brings a whole load of legal obligations. The state of Illinois and some federal laws, such as the FLSA, or Fair Labor Standards Act, basically outline the minimum standards that employees must be paid for regular and overtime hours worked, along with providing safety in the workplace. Non-compliance could result in costly fines and lawsuits.
At the Business Law Group, we guide small business owners through the complexities of employment law, from preparing employee handbooks to compliance with the Illinois Wage Payment and Collection Act, 820 ILCS 115/1 et seq, and anti-discrimination under the Illinois Human Rights Act, 775 ILCS 5/1 et seq. We also assist with employee termination procedures to ensure such procedures follow the legal requirements of Illinois so as to avoid wrongful termination claims.
4. Business Dispute Resolution
Unfortunately, disputes arise, and most times, this makes up an integral part of doing business. Whether it’s a disputed contract, a tussle between partners, or a dispute with competitors, legal disputes can drain your resources and divert your attention from running your business. Sometimes, all it takes to get through disputes is the presence of a good attorney.
At the Business Law Group, we efficiently and effectively resolve business disputes. As would-be conflict resolvers, we use negotiation and mediation to resolve disputes when and where possible, but we will aggressively litigate disputes where the circumstances warrant. We represent clients in all types of business disputes, including breach of contract, fraud claims, partnership disagreements, and disputes over intellectual property.
We also counsel and represent business entities regarding civil rights violations, collections, and construction disputes, among other matters. We are cognizant of the protection of your business’s reputation and bottom line and thus strive to achieve positive results on behalf of our clients.
5. General Counsel Services For Ongoing Legal Support
Most small businesses require regular access to legal counsel, whether it’s to review contracts, negotiate employment issues, or simply remain compliant with various state and federal regulations. Having an attorney on hand can make all the difference. Unfortunately, many small businesses can’t afford the high hourly rates that often accompany traditional legal services.
That’s why we offer our General Counsel Package for small businesses that require ongoing legal services. For a flat monthly fee, you can get advice and guidance from our team of attorneys. This package lets you be proactive with your legal needs without fear of surprise legal bills.
Illinois Business Law Frequently Asked Questions
How Can A Small Business Attorney Help Me Decide On The Right Business Structure?
A small business attorney will take into account your goals regarding your business, your liability concern, and the tax consequences and then advise you about the most appropriate form of your business. From deciding whether to operate your business as an LLC, a corporation, or a partnership, we walk you through structuring your business in such a way that will protect your personal assets and will be in compliance with the laws of Illinois, including the Illinois Business Corporation Act, 805 ILCS 5/1 et seq.
What Should I Put In My Employee Handbook?
An employee handbook should outline how your business handles workplace behavior, salary and benefits, and legal requirements. We help you prepare employee handbooks tailored to your business needs and compliant with Illinois labor law, including but not limited to the Illinois Wage Payment and Collection Act, 820 ILCS 115/1 et seq, and anti-discrimination laws.
What Do I Do If I Have A Business Dispute?
If for any reason a dispute does arise, it is highly advisable to immediately seek the advice of an attorney to discuss options. We help clients resolve disputes through negotiation, mediation, and litigation, as the circumstances of the dispute may require. Whether it involves a breach of contract, a dispute between partners, or intellectual property, we work to safeguard your business interests.
Can I Afford Regular Legal Advice For My Small Business?
Yes! Our General Counsel Package provides ongoing legal services and support to small businesses for a flat fee on a monthly basis. Through this package, you can obtain regular legal advice and guidance with no expensive fees as usual with hourly billing. You can keep yourself proactive for your business by being cost-effective.
Call Our Small Business Attorney In Chicago For A Free Consultation
At the Business Law Group, we’re here to ensure your small business prospers with the security of knowing it has a sound and legitimate beginning. Whether you’re just starting your business or expanding your company, our team provides expert legal counsel with services tailored to suit your needs. Contact our small business attorney in Chicago with the Business Law Group at (224) 353-6498. Let us help you protect your business and accomplish your goals for long-term success.
The information contained in these blog entries and on this website does not constitute legal advice. While the content discusses various legal issues, it is not intended to and does not provide legal advice. If you are seeking legal advice, you should contact the Business Law Group at 224-353-6498 to schedule a consultation.
