Start-Up Law

Starting a new business venture can be exciting, but it can also be stressful and overwhelming, especially if this is the first time you are doing it. There's more to starting a business than thinking about a name, gathering legal documents, and submitting them to your local tax office. You will be dealing with special requirements and unique procedures that can make any beginner violate the legal requirements unintentionally. On the bright side of things and to avoid any issues, hiring a Portland start-up lawyer to assist can be helpful.

Why You Need a Start-Up Lawyer

Starting a new business from scratch is going to be a smooth experience if you choose to hire a start-up lawyer. A lawyer knows every detail of your state's business laws and will provide responsive legal services all across the phases of your business. From the moment your business is created through the dissolution (or when you might be interested in selling), a start-up lawyer can help you every step of the way with valuable information and guidance that will ensure you don't skip out on any local, state or federal requirements or neglect important documents.

The biggest problem that new business owners have to deal with is complying with the corporate or business requirements. Depending on the state you live in, you will have to comply with local, state, and federal agencies. It's more common than you think for a small business to neglect a certain document and end up paying fines. Luckily, this can all be avoided by employing the services of a start-up lawyer.

Even though making plans for a new business is exciting, preparing the documents required for this to happen can be difficult. Moreover, entrepreneurs are required several steps such as checking for the availability of the desired start-up name, marketing tagline, and even if the building where the business will run operations is up to code. A start-up lawyer will do all of this for you while also making sure that you don't misappropriate a previously trademarked business name or tagline by mistake.

The bigger the business structure, the more complicated starting a new one can be. For example, starting a business that runs as a single-member LLC is easier and faster than starting a multi-member partnership LLC (limited liability company). A start-up lawyer is specialized in all business structures and can help speed up the process.

There are many more benefits that you get by choosing to create a new business with the help of a start-up lawyer in Portland, OR, and here are some that are worth mentioning:

• Business Entity Formation + Structure Strategy

• Operating Agreements + Corporate Bylaws

• Setting up insurance the right way

• Protecting intellectual property (especially helpful for artists)

• Overseeing funding

• Setting up company bank accounts

• Drafting the initial legal documents

• Reviewing commercial leases.

Business Entity Formation + Structure Strategy

Partnership agreements are used in many different contexts – and your agreement should reflect the special considerations of your particular arrangement.  We help to negotiate reasonable terms and we draft detailed agreements catered to your interests.

• Sole Proprietorships / Partnerships / Joint Ventures

• Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) / Corporations

• Benefit Corporations (B Corps)

• Alternative Governance Structures for Agility and Purpose

Capitalization Strategy + Management

• Equity and Venture Debt Fundraising

• Financing Documents

• Private Placement Memorandums

• Term Sheet Preparation and Negotiation

• Convertible Notes

• SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity) Notes

• Subscription Agreements

• Small Business Counseling

• Strategic Planning

Employment + Independent Contractor Agreements

• Employee Manuals

• Employment Handbooks

• Management Training

Facilitating innovation