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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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.

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CLIMB volunteer lawyers do not provide litigation representations.