Congratulations on taking your first step toward starting your own business! This is an incredibly exciting time, but also a time when you need to be aware of the legal implications of your new business. To that end, here are questions to ask a lawyer before you start your business.
49 Questions to ask a lawyer when starting a business:
- What type of business structure should I choose?
- Do I need to register my business with the state?
- What licenses and permits do I need to operate my business?
- Do I need to take out insurance for my business?
- What type of insurance do I need for my business?
- What are the zoning laws in my area and how do they affect my business?
- Do I need to comply with any safety or health regulations?
- Do I need to trademark my company name and logo?
- Will I be signing contracts with vendors or customers?
- What contracts do I need to sign with my employees, contractors, and vendors?
- What are the terms of these contracts?
- How can I protect my company’s intellectual property?
- How can I protect my company’s confidential information?
- Can I use open-source software in my company? If so, what are the implications?
- Can I use someone else’s copyrighted material in my marketing materials? If so, what are the implications?
- Do I need to comply with any industry-specific regulations?
- Do any international laws apply to my business?
- How can I resolve disputes with other companies or customers without going to court?
- How can I resolve issues with another business owner or partner?
- What do I need to know about online privacy laws?
- If I sell products online, am I responsible for sales tax in other states where the buyers live?
- Are there laws that govern how I can market and sell my products or services online (e-commerce)?
- Are there laws that affect how I operate my website or blog (e-commerce)?
- Do I have to post certain notices on my website or blog (e-commerce)?
- What can I do if someone violates my copyright online (e-commerce)?
- What can I do if someone posts false or defamatory information about me or my company online (e-commerce)?
- Do I have to comply with any laws or regulations when collecting customer data?
- Do I have to comply with any industry-specific regulations?
- What rules apply to advertising and marketing for my business?
- How do taxes affect my business?
- What are their rights and what are my obligations as an employer?
- Do I have to provide any employee benefits?
- What are the most common employment law issues I need to be aware of?
- Do I need to enter into a buy-sell agreement with my business partners?
- What are the laws regarding safety in the workplace?
- What are the laws regarding firing an employee?
- What are the laws regarding discrimination and harassment in the workplace?
- What should I include in my employee handbook?
- How often should I review my employee handbook and policies?
- What are the most common employment law pitfalls companies face?
- Do you have any recommendations for reducing the risk of employment lawsuits?
- How can I ensure that my employees are properly classified and that I pay them correctly?
- What are the consequences if I misclassify an employee as an independent contractor?
- What are the consequences of not paying my workers overtime?
- What consumer protection laws apply to my business?
- Which labor laws apply to my company?
- Do environmental laws apply to my business?
- What happens if someone sues me or my company?
- What other legal aspects do I need to consider when running my business?
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important to consult a lawyer when starting a new business?
A lawyer should be consulted when starting a new business because they can help with the legal aspects of starting and running a business. This includes things like registering the business, creating contracts, and dealing with any legal issues that may arise. A lawyer can also make sure you are complying with the law and that your business is as protected as possible.
When do you need a business lawyer for your small business?
A business lawyer is not always necessary for small businesses. However, there are certain times when a business lawyer can be helpful. For example, if you are starting a new business, you may want to consult with a business lawyer to ensure that you are following all required legal procedures. It is also often helpful to have a business attorney by your side when you have legal problems or disputes.
What types of contracts are required for a business?
Businesses need contracts for a variety of reasons. To purchase goods, a business must enter into a contract with the supplier. To rent property, a business must sign a lease agreement. To hire employees, a business must sign an employment contract. To use services, a company must sign a contract with the service provider. A contract sets out the terms of the agreement between the parties and serves to protect both the business and the supplier, tenant, employee, or service provider.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the many legal questions you need to think about when starting your own business. Although it may seem like a lot of work at first, taking the time to consult with a lawyer will save you a lot of headaches – and money. So do not delay, start making your dream a reality today!
