Chances are if you are setting up a small Florida business, the last thing on your mind is a business lawyer. However, you can prevent problems down the road by thinking ahead and in the long run, you can save hundreds of dollars in legal fees and countless hours of headaches. There are so many things that can go wrong with your small business that could be prevented if you are proactive. Here are just a few problems you might encounter with your new business.
Contractors and employees
One of the biggest decisions you will make as a small business owner is whether to hire full or part-time employees or use contractors for your business. However, IRS rules regarding contractors can be confusing and can mean you may run into a whole host of problems with misclassified workers. Employment contracts are extremely important in clarifying expectations and ensuring you do not run afoul of IRS regulations.
Expanding your business
Whether you are searching for capital or simply growing your business through great marketing, you will need help. Capital acquisition is fraught with problems and you have to disclose a lot of personal information. When you are contracting with new customers, you need your contracts to be specific from the beginning to the end. Most small business owners never think about the potential legal issues they might run into when drafting new client contracts.
Operations and Regulations
Whatever industry you work in, here in Florida, there is probably a state or federal governmental office that regulates it. From OSHA reporting and ADA compliance down to your city’s code of ordinances, your business must operate in compliance within specific regulations. Your company should have clearly-written policies and guidelines to keep out of trouble. A great deal of business litigation related to regulatory and employment issues, can be often be traced back to a lack of (or ineffective) employee policies or handbook.
Why a business lawyer is a must
You might think that a business lawyer can only help if you are already in trouble. This is not the time to consider hiring a lawyer, simply put, it’s probably too late. When you have a general lawyer who is involved in your business from day one, you can avoid surprises later down the road.
Whether you are considering starting a business or have an established business and you are worried about potential legal problems, call The Law Office of Brandon Woodward, P.A. today. Our goal is to make sure you get the services you deserve at a price that you can afford to keep your small business running smoothly from day one.