Small business attorneys are an incredible asset for a startup. They provide sound legal advice to help business owners make informed decisions and guide them through the complex legal processes and regulations related to operating and expanding their businesses. If you are looking for the best small business attorney for your startup in Queens, New York, look no further than Albert Maimone & Associates. Albert and Peter Maimone are experienced attorneys, well-versed in startup laws. They take the time to understand your business goals and provide legal solutions that protect your interests, minimize risks, and set your business up for long-term growth and success.
As a small business or a startup owner, you may end up doing a lot of tasks yourself. However, you should not make the mistake of managing everything yourself, especially when it comes to legal issues related to business, as overlooking even small legal issues can have major consequences for your business.
Having a reliable legal partner to offer advice and manage your legal obligations can be a powerful advantage. By seeking guidance from a small business attorney for your setup early, you are not only avoiding problems; you are laying a strong foundation for your company’s growth and future success.
Read on to learn when it’s time to hire a small business attorney in Queens and how to find the right one who can meet your startup’s legal and commercial needs efficiently.
What Is a Small Business Attorney?
A small business attorney is a legal professional who specializes in providing legal services to small businesses, from startup to established operations.
Also referred to as corporate or commercial lawyers, small business attorneys help you navigate the legal aspects of starting, running, and growing a venture, while minimizing risks and protecting assets.
Small business attorneys can help with a wide range of matters, including:
- Choosing and forming the right business structure, such as LLC, corporation, or partnership, etc.
- Drafting and reviewing contracts and agreements
- Protecting intellectual property such as trademarks, copyrights, and patents
- Ensuring regulatory and tax compliance
- Managing employment law issues and workplace policies
- Handling disputes, partnerships, and transactions
They act as a trusted legal advisor and ensure your company operates within the law, runs smoothly and achieves its business goals successfully. Seeking legal counsel early can save your time, guide you in making informed decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and proactively manage legal and financial risks.
Types of Small Business Attorneys
General business attorney
A general business attorney provides legal advice on a wide range of matters relating to starting, running, and maintaining a startup. This type of attorney is best suited for businesses that do not require specialized legal advice or representation.
Employment and labor attorney
If your startup has employees or you plan to hire them, an employment and labor attorney can help you follow local and state labor laws. They draft employee manuals and oversee the proper implementation of safety standards.
These attorneys also safeguard your business from wrongful terminations, workplace discrimination, and sexual harassment, creating a compliant and safe work environment.
Merger and acquisition attorney
When you buy and sell business, you negotiate for the property and assets of those businesses. Having a merger and acquisition attorney to represent your interests in those transactions can help with fair negotiations.
These attorneys realize the complexities associated with mergers and acquisitions. They ensure all legal requirements are met, contracts are properly drafted and reviewed, and your interests are fully protected.
Tax attorney
Businesses need to pay state and federal taxes. A tax attorney specializes in tax-related matters for small businesses, including tax planning, compliance with tax laws, deductions, and handles tax-related disputes with authorities. They help you avoid confusion and prevent mistakes that can lead to legal action from the IRS.
Contract attorney
Making business deals requires written contracts and agreements to ensure your dealings with clients, suppliers, and partners are legally sound. A qualified contract attorney can create legitimate, well-written contracts that protect your business from unnecessary obligations. They safeguard your interests while minimizing potential risks and disputes.
Intellectual property attorney
This type of attorney focuses on protecting your company’s intellectual property, which includes trademarks, copyrights, patents, information, and brand recognition concerns. They guide you on safeguarding branding elements, inventions, creative works, and proprietary information. They are qualified to handle the registration process, enforce rights against infringement, and prevent costly legal issues and lawsuits related to IP by ensuring compliance with IP laws.
Startups face several challenges, including a swiftly changing legal landscape. Having a competent small business attorney gives you a chance to run and grow your small business confidently.
Some Benefits of Working With a Small Business Attorney
Hiring an experienced business lawyer is a key investment that not only brings peace of mind but also provides the support your small business needs at this time. Your attorney can assist with conflicts, incidents, or costly legal challenges involving customers, employees, or other businesses, while protecting your interests throughout the process.
In the early stages of your startup, an attorney can ensure it is properly structured and legally compliant. They can also guide you on everyday business matters, tax issues, and operations. As your business grows, the attorney will focus on protecting your assets, including cash and property. They create binding and fair contracts for employees, clients, and vendors, and handle contract enforcement in case of any disputes.
An attorney can also assist you with the legal process if court representation is needed. They help with negotiations, litigation, and overcoming challenges by guiding you into making the best decisions.
Cost of Hiring a Small Business Attorney
The cost of hiring a small business attorney varies, depending on several factors, including the expertise and experience of the attorney, their location, and your business needs and budget. Case complexity and the fee structure they use can also impact the cost.
Common billing methods include:
- Hourly rate – Most small business attorneys charge an hourly rate that ranges from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on location and expertise.
- Flat fees – Some attorneys charge a flat fee for specific tasks such as drafting contracts, forming an LLC, or creating agreements.
- Retainer – If you seek ongoing legal support, you may need to pay a monthly or annual retainer fee, which will secure the attorney’s availability and access to legal services as you need them.
Hiring an attorney may seem like a considerable investment, but it is a smart decision that can save your business time, money, and legal headaches in the long run.
How to Find the Right Small Business Attorney?
Start searching for the right small business attorney by identifying your legal needs, and choose someone who understands your industry and business goals.
Look for an attorney who specializes in small business or startup law and has sufficient experience in your industry for the best legal guidance. Check online resources, social media platforms, and bar listings, or ask your colleagues and other small business owners within your network. They may refer someone they are currently working with or have worked with before. Referrals and recommendations can help you make the right choice.
Verifying the attorney’s licenses, certifications, and professional reputation is an essential part of the process and ensures you get the right person to handle your business matters effectively.
It is best to meet with potential attorneys to discuss your business goals, legal challenges, and working style. Pay attention to how well they listen to you, realize your business vision, and offer practical solutions. This way, you will find an attorney who truly aligns with your needs and supports your business growth.
Important Factors to Keep in Mind When Choosing a Small Business Attorney
Choosing a small business attorney is a crucial decision for your startup or growing business. Keep the following factors in mind to select an attorney who can protect your business and navigate legal challenges successfully.
- Experience and expertise
- Specialization in small business or startup law, and experience in your industry
- Communication skills
- Accessibility and availability for your business needs
- Fee structure and affordability
Interviewing any potential attorneys can help you determine if you are comfortable with them before making a decision or signing any contracts. Just because an attorney is good may not mean they are right for you. You need to hire an attorney you feel comfortable with and can trust with your business matters.
Making the Most of Your Small Business Attorney Relationship – Some Key Tips
Maintaining a relationship with your small business attorney is as crucial as finding one. Here are some tips to ensure you enjoy a smooth and productive partnership:
Open communication – Don’t hide anything from your attorney. Communicate regularly with them and answer their correspondence in a timely manner. Clearly explain what you are looking for and keep them updated about any changes within your business.
Trust their advice – Take your attorney’s advice seriously, as they have more knowledge and experience and have also learned from past mistakes of others in similar situations. Ask them questions to gain a better understanding of legal matters related to business.
Keep up with the payment schedule – Failing to pay the attorney can affect your reputation and relationship with them. If you are unable to pay on schedule, reach out and discuss your financial situation with them to reach a mutually agreeable arrangement.
As an entrepreneur in Queens, you must understand how small business attorneys can help your startup operate within the law and thrive in a competitive market. The attorneys at Albert Maimone & Associates have extensive experience facilitating small business owners in various industries throughout Queens. Whether it is assistance with an employee matter, vendor issues, or potential litigation, they work diligently to safeguard your investment, prevent legal issues before they occur, and provide expert guidance for running your business.