All businesses undergo a "life cycle" and progress through similar stages of development and change.  The success or failure of a particular business largely depends on how it has prepared for these stages.  I can provide legal counsel at each stage to help you navigate the particular challenges and opportunities arising at each developmental stage.

Inception

A well-planned and organized inception increases the chances of success and requires comprehensive planning.  When starting a business, consideration must be given to the particular tax characteristics and formational requirements of a variety of potential operational structures.  Each business has specific needs and objectives, and what works for one business may not work for another business.  I will devote the necessary time and effort to fully understand your business plan and objectives.  With this knowledge, I will assist you in forming the most tax advantaged business structure. 

In forming an entity, I will: 

• Determine whether a particular business name is available for use.
• Determine the appropriate business structure (partnership, limited liability company, C or S corporation)
• File appropriate pre-formation paperwork with the relevant state authorities.
• Prepare relevant entity records (corporate bylaws, limited liability company operating agreement, partnership agreement, etc.)
• File the appropriate post-formation paperwork with the relevant state authorities.

Growth

Having successfully met the challenges of early years, this stage requires an increased focus on establishing formal plans and procedures to deal with increased sales, customers, and expenses.   I can provide the legal support during this phase by reviewing and drafting contracts so as to best protect your business and legal inerests.  I can also provide referrals to attorney colleagues specializing in other legal areas (employment law, patent law, etc.).

Maturity and Expansion

In this stage, the business is well-established with a defined market position and loyal customers.  Expanding revenues often becomes a top priority and the business will explore new markets or consider expansion via a strategic acquisition.  In this phase, I can assist by reviewing potential markets and their tax framework and providing a memorandum of potential tax implications of entry.  If a business acquisition, I can analyze the possible acquisition methods to determine a tax advantaged means of purchase and then review or draft the applicable purchase agreement.

Exit

This stage provides the opportunity for the business owner to realize the economic benefits earned from their hard work and pass on the value they have created to future generations.  I can assist the owner to most fully realize these rewards by reviewing and analyzing potential exit or transfer strategies.