The gulf between deciding to start a business and doing so is broad and twisted. Among such responsibilities as building a website and hiring employees, legal hurdles can derail your efforts. Even the most detailed business plans can’t replace your leadership while you juggle legal obligations. Nevertheless, an experienced business law attorney can help you construct an inviolable business structure, draft iron-clad contracts, and navigate complex regulations.

Businesses of all sizes seeking reliable legal counsel can turn to Compass Law. Our team is licensed to practice in both Maryland and Washington, DC. Our attorneys (well-versed in business law) have a thorough knowledge of helping clients’ companies get off the ground and navigate the legal landscape. Call (240) 560-3030 to learn more about hiring our lawyers for your business.

Below, we outline 5 ways a business attorney can help your young organization:

1. Contract Drafting and Review 

As the backbone of your business dealings, contracts must be straightforward, comprehensive, and airtight to protect your interests. Business lawyers possess the expertise to translate your agreements into detailed legal language. They can anticipate potential issues and include clauses to mitigate risk against you and your assets.

Furthermore, lawyers can identify unfavorable terms presented by other parties, negotiate on your behalf, and ensure outside contracts align with your business goals. Examples of the contracts business lawyers specialize in include:

• Client contracts
• Vendor contracts
• Employment contracts
• Leases
• Mergers and acquisitions

2. Employment Law  

Employee and labor laws are a maze of federal, state, and local regulations. Staying compliant with the labyrinth of expectations (in addition to all their other tasks) can feel overwhelming for new business owners. Yet an experienced business attorney can be your guide through these hoops.

They can ensure your hiring practices are fair and non-discriminatory, that your employee handbook is clear, and that you adhere to minimum wage and overtime rules. Proactively ensuring compliance through your lawyer’s expertise can prevent disgruntled employees and costly lawsuits.

3. Business Formation 

Choosing the right business entity for your company is crucial because it comes with tax and liability implications. Based on your specific needs and goals, a lawyer can educate you on the options and guide you toward the best structure. Examples of common business entities include:

• Sole Proprietorship
• Partnerships
• Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• Corporation

You can lay the proper groundwork for your organization by involving a business legal professional from the start.

4. Intellectual Property

In today’s economy, your intellectual property (ideas, inventions, creative works, and more) is among your most valuable assets. Partnering with a business lawyer is essential for safeguarding these unique creations. With the assistance of a legal expert, you can register trademarks and copyrights, navigate the patent process, and keep trade secrets protected. Moreover, your lawyer can take legal action to stop them and recover damages if a competitor infringes on your intellectual property.

5. Regulatory Compliance 

For new business owners, navigating regulatory compliance can be daunting. However, in the same way they assist with employment laws, business lawyers can help decipher complex federal, state, and local regulations that apply to your industry. They’ll ensure your licenses and permits are up-to-date and keep you up-to-date on changing standards.

Furthermore, a lawyer can advise you on data protection, environmental regulations, and proper advertising practices to minimize the chances of fines or legal action. Again, you can confidently run your business on the right side of the law by ensuring compliance from the outset.

Even if your organization is small or just beginning operations, consulting a business law attorney is a wise investment. Their expertise can help you avoid legal pitfalls and set your business up for long-term success. Learn more about how our business lawyers can aid your organization by calling (240) 560-3030 today!