CLIMB volunteer lawyers provide legal assistance for the following business law needs:

 

FORMING A BUSINESS ENTITY

• Make an informed decision on the legal structure best for a business (Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, LLC, C-Corporation, S-Corporation) based on an understanding of the differences in cost, complexity, flexibility, control and tax treatment.

• Register a limited liability entity for a business, draft bylaws/operating agreement and other organizational documents, and take all formation steps required by regulators, licensors and taxing authorities.

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CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

• Understand and observe all applicable corporate formalities, including separation of business and personal finances and required corporate meeting minutes.

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FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

• ​Review and understand documentation related to loans from banks, government agencies and other sources.

• Document and understand structure, negotiation and requirements for taking on investors in a business.

• Explain the rights and obligations under an existing loan, including working with creditors to negotiate and restructure debt that is in default.

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CONTRACTS

• Document all important business arrangements and agreements in writing, including with customers, website users, investors and independent contractors.

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COMMERCIAL LEASES

• Explain the rights and obligations under an existing or proposed lease, including lease negotiation techniques, common terms, hidden costs and other potential pitfalls.

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TAX

• Understand tax obligations and pay all required taxes, including income, FICA or self-employment, and sales taxes (if required).

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EMPLOYMENT ISSUES

• Maintain adequate employment documentation and understand employer responsibilities, including wage and hour, discrimination laws, workers comp, disability, payroll taxes, personnel files, and employee versus independent contractor.

 

 

CLIMB volunteer lawyers do not provide litigation representations.