{"id":5124,"date":"2016-04-04T10:47:57","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:47:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/10-reasons-to-contact-an-attorney-before-starting-a-business.html"},"modified":"2026-05-20T16:50:00","modified_gmt":"2026-05-20T21:50:00","slug":"10-reasons-to-contact-an-attorney-before-starting-a-business","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/10-reasons-to-contact-an-attorney-before-starting-a-business.html","title":{"rendered":"Top 10 Reasons To Work With a Lawyer When You Start a Business"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30  wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n<div class=\"fl-section-main fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\"><h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">Top 10 Reasons To Work With a Lawyer When You Start a Business<\/h1>\n\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/amber-sheppard-esq\/\">Amber Sheppard, Esq.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/catherine-hodder-esq\/\">Catherine Hodder, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last updated\n        <time>\n                            May 20, 2026\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-editorial-note fl-text-sm\">\n            <p>Editorial Note: We earn a commission from affiliate partner links on FindLaw. Commissions do not affect the editorial integrity of our legal content.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<div><p>Starting a business is a multi-step process that can be exciting and overwhelming. Whether you\u2019re starting your enterprise on your own or with a group of business professionals, there are reasons to work with a business attorney during the <span data-term-id=\"54200923\">startup<\/span> process.<\/p>\n<p>Protecting yourself and others from liability, debts, and unwanted legal action is important. This is particularly important when you\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/start-up-basics.html\">start a business<\/a>. Getting <span data-term-id=\"54200925\">legal advice<\/span> or hiring <span data-term-id=\"54200955\">legal services<\/span> may be crucial to the success of your business <span data-term-id=\"54200923\">startup<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>This article highlights the top ten benefits of working with a <span data-term-id=\"54200935\">small <\/span><span data-term-id=\"54200939\">business<\/span><span data-term-id=\"54200939\"> lawyer<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p><b><i>Ready to form your LLC with confidence? <a href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115288\/26746?subId1=10-reasons-to-contact-an-attorney-before-starting-a-business-in-content\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" data-cta=\"Biz LZ - LATL Callout\" data-cta-url=\"legalzoom.com\" target=\"_blank\">Our trusted partner LegalZoom has packages starting at $0 + filing fees.<\/a><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<h2>#1: Contract Drafting and Review Is Critical, Even for <span data-term-id=\"54200935\">Small Businesses<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Most\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-contracts-forms\/contracts-basics.html\">businesses execute contracts<\/a>\u00a0for legal matters and <span data-term-id=\"54200931\">legal documents<\/span> like:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p>Real estate leases<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Services<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Supplies<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Employment<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-term-id=\"54200935\">Small business<\/span> owners have agreements between partners, investors, and employees. The agreements should protect all parties involved in the contract. Some examples are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/write-a-partnership-agreement.html\">Partnership agreements<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-operations\/what-is-an-llc-operating-agreement.html\">LLC <span data-term-id=\"54200952\">operating agreements<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-finances\/loan-package-documents-and-information.html\">Business loan<\/a>\u00a0contracts<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-contracts-forms\/what-is-a-non-disclosure-agreement-nda.html\"><span data-term-id=\"54200953\">Non-disclosure agreements<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><span data-term-id=\"54200938\">Employment Agreements<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Disclaimer templates<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Having a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/business-commercial-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"54200939\">business lawyer<\/span><\/a>\u00a0to review all contracts helps protect your rights and avoid future <span data-term-id=\"54200927\">legal issues<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h2>#2: Registration, Licensing, and Permit Matters Can Be Complex<\/h2>\n<p>Depending on the <span data-term-id=\"54200932\">business structure<\/span> and type of business, some <span data-term-id=\"54200964\">business entities<\/span> must register with the city, county, or state. Even businesses without <span data-term-id=\"54200940\">incorporation<\/span> or formal registration procedures may have to obtain\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/business-licenses-and-permits.html\">licenses or permits<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Registration processes and renewals are complicated, especially if your business requires many of them. A <span data-term-id=\"54200944\">good lawyer<\/span> can help you obtain the right licenses and permits and make sure your business is compliant.<\/p>\n<h2>#3:\u00a0Choosing the Wrong <span data-term-id=\"54200964\">Business Entity<\/span> Could Put You at Risk for Costly <span data-term-id=\"54200927\">Legal Issues<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>How you structure your\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/types-of-business-structures.html\">business formation<\/a>, whether a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/sole-proprietorship-advantages-and-disadvantages.html\"><span data-term-id=\"54200934\">sole proprietorship<\/span><\/a>,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/partnerships.html\">partnership<\/a>,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/forming-an-llc.html\">LLC<\/a>, or\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/pros-and-cons-why-form-a-corporation.html\">corporation<\/a>, dictates your responsibilities as a business owner. Your chosen structure also affects your legal responsibilities and liability as an <span data-term-id=\"54200943\">entrepreneur<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>For example, choosing the wrong entity can create legal problems and make you personally liable for your employees or partners if they engage in legal wrongdoings. Personal liability allows a jury or court to seize your personal assets to pay a judgment. You should consider consulting a business attorney to help you choose the right entity for liability protection to protect your personal assets.<\/p>\n<h2>#4: You Might Deal With Complexities Concerning Multi-State Businesses<\/h2>\n<p>States have different laws for <span data-term-id=\"54200964\">business entities<\/span> in their state. Operating in more than one jurisdiction has its own <span data-term-id=\"54200965\">unique challenges<\/span>. You might consult FindLaw\u2019s\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/business-laws.html\">State <span data-term-id=\"54200963\">Business Laws<\/span><\/a>\u00a0section for specific laws in the states you want to operate in. You may consider getting <span data-term-id=\"54200942\">legal support<\/span> in a new state where you want to do business.<\/p>\n<h2>#5:\u00a0You Could Lose Protection if You Do Not Follow Strict Conformity<\/h2>\n<p>With some <span data-term-id=\"54200964\">business entities<\/span>, you must conform to the state law governing that business form. For example, an LLC\u2019s articles of organization may need filing,\u00a0with filing fees paid. A registered agent needs designation through your jurisdiction\u2019s Secretary of State.<\/p>\n<p>Suppose you do not strictly conform to the state laws. In that case, there is a chance you may lose the benefits and protections,\u00a0such as limited liability protections,\u00a0associated with those laws. A business attorney can help ensure your business is always\u00a0protected.<\/p>\n<h2>#6:\u00a0A <span data-term-id=\"54200939\">Business Lawyer<\/span> Can Help You Understand Capital and Related Money Matters<\/h2>\n<p>Businesses need to\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/start-up-financing.html\">raise money<\/a>, keep records of income and distributions, and behave in a fiscally responsible manner. Different <span data-term-id=\"54200964\">business entities<\/span> may require different procedures for raising capital and making distributions, so you must have a <a rel=\"sponsored noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115288\/26746?subId1=10-reasons-to-contact-an-attorney-before-starting-a-business%20wct250924184840tyiwp&amp;auto-aff-llc\" target=\"_blank\">business formation<\/a> lawyer look at the requirements for your specific entity type. This can help make sure you avoid liability and potential tax issues.<\/p>\n<p>Moreover, the input of a business attorney can help you formulate an optimal business plan that\u00a0communicates your business needs and goals to potential investors.<\/p>\n<h2>#7:\u00a0There Are a Variety of Entities To Choose From With Business Formation<\/h2>\n<p>Although there are only a handful of <span data-term-id=\"54200964\">business entities<\/span> to choose from, other options within these entities determine important designations. This includes taxation and liability for partners. Some common <span data-term-id=\"54200964\">business entities<\/span> include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/what-is-a-sole-proprietor.html\"><span data-term-id=\"54200934\">Sole Proprietorships<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/the-small-business-partnership-general-and-limited-partnerships.html\">Partnerships (limited partnerships and general partnerships)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/forming-an-llc.html\">Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/what-is-a-corporation.html\">Corporations<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/non-profit-corporation-faq.html\">Nonprofit Organizations<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Choosing the wrong <span data-term-id=\"54200964\">business entity<\/span> can have financial and legal consequences. Picking a business name that does not conflict with a pre-existing\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/intellectual-property\/trademarks.html\">trademark<\/a>,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/intellectual-property\/copyrights.html\">copyright<\/a>, or\u00a0forms of\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/intellectual-property.html\"><span data-term-id=\"54200924\">intellectual property<\/span><\/a>\u00a0is also important. A <span data-term-id=\"54200935\">small <\/span><span data-term-id=\"54200939\">business<\/span><span data-term-id=\"54200939\"> lawyer<\/span> can walk you through considerations to make when forming your business.<\/p>\n<h2>#8: Autonomy for State <span data-term-id=\"54200963\">Business Laws<\/span> Is Complicated<\/h2>\n<p>With many <span data-term-id=\"54200964\">business entities<\/span>, state law decides the things you don\u2019t or can\u2019t make choices on. Most states have adopted &#8220;Uniform Laws&#8221; that fill in the gaps for <span data-term-id=\"54200964\">business entities<\/span> where their charters, corporate by-laws, <a rel=\"sponsored noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115288\/26746?subId1=10-reasons-to-contact-an-attorney-before-starting-a-business%20wct2509241848405m37a&amp;auto-aff-llc\" target=\"_blank\">LLC<\/a> <span data-term-id=\"54200952\">operating agreements<\/span>, and other organizing documents are silent. You may be subject to a set of laws and regulations you don\u2019t even know exist. A lawyer will make sure you\u2019re aware of these and handle <span data-term-id=\"54200927\">legal issues<\/span> that may arise.<\/p>\n<h2>#9: Tax Liability Is Costly Without Advice From a <span data-term-id=\"54200939\">Business Lawyer<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Different business forms provide different\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-taxes\/start-up-tax-issues.html\">tax<\/a>\u00a0advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right <a rel=\"sponsored noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115288\/26746?subId1=10-reasons-to-contact-an-attorney-before-starting-a-business%20wct250924184840xbb2l&amp;auto-aff-llc\" target=\"_blank\">business formation<\/a> is the only thing more crucial to a <span data-term-id=\"54200954\">new business<\/span> than taxes.<\/p>\n<p>Having a business or tax lawyer assess liability and help obtain an employer identification number from the IRS can save you time, money, and future stress and complications. Visit\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-taxes\/business-tax-basics.html\">FindLaw\u2019s business tax section<\/a>\u00a0for more information on <span data-term-id=\"54200948\">tax law<\/span> basics.<\/p>\n<h2>#10: You Can Avoid General <span data-term-id=\"54200927\">Legal Issues<\/span> With Help From an Attorney<\/h2>\n<p>Different business formations provide both protections and risks to the business owner or investor. Personal liability is a significant factor and can put everything you own at risk if you don\u2019t assess personal liability.<\/p>\n<p>Business attorneys can help you avoid risky situations, help lessen liability, and make sure you\u2019re educated about <span data-term-id=\"54200963\">business laws<\/span>. To learn more about how a lawyer can help with liability issues, see FindLaw\u2019s\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/liability-and-insurance\/business-liability.html\">Business Liability<\/a>\u00a0section.<\/p>\n<h2>Ready To Talk to a <span data-term-id=\"54200939\">Business Lawyer<\/span>?<\/h2>\n<p>While working with an attorney is an upfront investment, it can give you both the short and long-term protection you need to keep your focus solely on your business. Working with a <span data-term-id=\"54200939\">business lawyer<\/span> can also put your mind at ease and cover all your bases,\u00a0from business formation to employment law compliance and contract review.<\/p>\n<p>Contact a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/business-commercial-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"54200963\">business law<\/span> attorney near you<\/a>\u00a0today to discuss your needs and obtain a <span data-term-id=\"54200951\">referral<\/span> for your case.<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n   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