Monday - Thurs8AM - 5PM
Fri8AM-1PM
Offices4608 Rye St Metairie, LA 70006
PRACTICE AREASSmall Business Attorney – Slidell & Metairie
Running a small business involves more than providing products or services. Business owners must also navigate contracts, employment matters, disputes, regulations, finances, and potential liability. Having the right legal guidance can help protect a business and its owners while providing a strong foundation for continued growth. At Frank D’Amico, Jr., we help small business owners address a wide range of legal matters, protect their interests, resolve disputes, and make informed decisions as their businesses grow and change.
Common Small Business Legal Issues
- Business Formation– Choosing and maintaining an appropriate legal structure, such as an LLC, corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship.
- Business Contracts– Drafting and reviewing agreements with customers, vendors, contractors, partners, and other parties.
- Partnership Disputes– Addressing disagreements between business owners involving ownership, responsibilities, finances, or management.
- Employment Matters– Helping businesses address employment agreements, workplace disputes, policies, and other employment-related concerns.
- Business Disputes– Representing business owners in disputes involving customers, vendors, competitors, partners, or other parties.
- Breach of Contract– Pursuing or defending claims when a party fails to fulfill its obligations under a business agreement.
- Debt and Payment Disputes– Addressing unpaid invoices, disputed payments, collections, and other financial disagreements.
- Business Purchases and Sales– Assisting with the legal aspects of buying or selling a business, including contracts and ownership transfers.
- Intellectual Property– Helping protect business names, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, and other valuable intellectual property.
- Business Succession Planning– Developing plans for transferring ownership or management of a business when an owner retires, becomes incapacitated, or leaves the company.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my small business need a lawyer?
While a lawyer is not required for every business matter, legal guidance can help prevent problems and protect your business when significant decisions or disputes arise. An attorney can assist with contracts, formation, employment matters, disputes, and other legal issues.
What legal structure is best for my small business?
The appropriate structure depends on factors such as the number of owners, type of business, liability concerns, tax considerations, and long-term goals. Common structures include LLCs, corporations, partnerships, and sole proprietorships.
Do I need written contracts for my business?
Written contracts can help clearly establish the rights and responsibilities of everyone involved in a business transaction. They can also provide important protections if a disagreement develops.
What if a customer refuses to pay?
If a customer fails to pay for goods or services, the business may have several options depending on the circumstances and the terms of the agreement. Documentation such as contracts, invoices, payment records, and communications can be important when pursuing unpaid amounts.
What if another business breaches our contract?
If another party fails to fulfill its contractual obligations, your business may have a claim for damages or other remedies. An attorney can review the agreement, determine whether a breach occurred, and explain your available options.
Can I be personally liable for my business's debts?
The answer depends on your business structure and the circumstances. Certain business structures can provide liability protection, but that protection is not absolute. Personal guarantees, improper business practices, and other circumstances can sometimes result in personal liability.
How can I protect my business from lawsuits?
Businesses can take steps to reduce legal risks by using appropriate contracts, maintaining proper records, following applicable laws and regulations, protecting intellectual property, and addressing disputes before they escalate.
What if I have a dispute with my business partner?
Partnership and ownership disputes can involve significant financial and operational consequences. Reviewing the partnership or operating agreement is often an important first step in determining each owner’s rights and obligations.
Can an attorney help me sell my small business?
Yes. Selling a business can involve contracts, ownership transfers, financial obligations, employees, leases, intellectual property, and other legal issues. An attorney can help review and negotiate the agreements involved in the transaction.
How can Frank D’Amico, Jr. help my small business?
Frank D’Amico, Jr. can help small business owners address contracts, disputes, business transactions, employment matters, and other legal concerns. We work to protect your business interests, resolve legal problems, and help you make informed decisions as your business grows.