Attorney Lanease Fuller has over three decades of experience helping small businesses become compliant and navigate legal issues. Whether you are looking to start a business, are trying to select or change your business structure, want to learn more about how to protect yourself when hiring employees, or are facing another matter our team is here for you.
Attorney Lanease Fuller understands how important your company is to you and works with you every step of the way to keep your company legal and in compliance with all proper business standards. Do not gamble with your commercial business, work with an attorney that can help protect you and advocate for your needs. Contact us today to learn more about the services we provide and to schedule a free consultation.
How Can an Attorney Help My Small Business?
Business Formation
Some of the most important matters are handled at the beginning of the business. For example, a small business lawyer may want to structure his or her business in a way that limits personal liability. Small business lawyers can help with the process of incorporation so that new business owners are assured that their business starts on strong legal footing.
Corporate Governance
Even if businesses use a lawyer to help incorporate the business, they may fail to maintain this status. A business lawyer can advise commercial clients to have annual shareholder, director or partner meetings in order to maintain this status. Likewise, certain types of businesses must record minutes and elect officers according to their state’s requirements.
Failing to take these steps can have disastrous consequences for the business. If sued, the business stands to have its corporate veil pierced and exposes corporate officers to personal liability.
Intellectual Property
Before a business really launches, it must take steps to protect its intellectual property, if applicable. This includes the business name, logo, brand name and other aspects of the business that should be protected by copyright.
Businesses may have other intangible assets that should also be protected, including architectural blueprints, devices, creations and computer software. Certain business processes may also be eligible for patent protection. Business lawyers can assist commercial clients with acquiring the necessary copyright, patent and trademark registrations that are necessary to protect this important aspect of their business.
Privacy Policies
Business lawyers can also help businesses protect their patient, client or customer information. A privacy policy is required in some states in which a business keeps personally identifiable information. A seemingly innocuous connection such as having a customer’s email address as part of a newsletter list may trigger such a requirement.
Non-Disclosure Agreements
As the business begins to operate, business owners may enter into agreements with other parties. However, business owners will want to ensure that their business ideas and trade secrets are protected. Business lawyers can help draft non-disclosure agreements so that businesses can expand without having to worry about having their information stolen.
Employment Agreements
While many businesses start as a single-person operation, many small businesses owners quickly learn that they need some help for their business to thrive.
Business lawyers may assist their clients by helping to draft employment agreements, including non-disclosure agreements, employment contracts for a specific duration and non-compete agreements. The last group mentioned often requires very specific catering to detail. States have specific rules regarding the duration of a non-compete agreement, the geographical proximity of such a contract and the extent of the agreement.
Benefit Programs
Small businesses may need assistance in developing benefit programs for their employees. They may also be concerned with complying with laws regarding healthcare coverage for employees. A business lawyer may be able to advise small business owners of their responsibilities.
Additionally, small business lawyers may assist clients in drafting an incentive plan to help motivate employees.
Client Agreements
As the business continues to grow and become more successful, it may take in new clientele. To protect the business, a business lawyer may draft specific agreements between the business and the client. By having the terms written upfront, disagreements and misunderstandings can potentially be avoided.
Collections
When customers stop paying their bills, small businesses and their cash flow system can become crippled. A business lawyer may aid in collecting past-due accounts.
Even if a small business owner determines that going to small claims court is faster and cheaper, a business lawyer may walk the owner through this process and provide advice about how to present evidence and support the case.
Defamation
Small businesses rely on their reputation. One bad review can quickly halt a small business’ growth. A small business lawyer may be able to get a court order to take down defamatory online posts. As a faster measure, a lawyer may send a cease and desist order to get the culprit’s attention.
Exit Strategies
Just like a business lawyer can help form the business, it can help develop policies regarding the ending of the business. When a partner or major shareholder decides to the leave the business, the business plan may allow for the business to close or for the remaining members or partners to buy the party’s share of the business back.
Attorney for Small Businesses in Houston
Attorney Fuller is a seasoned attorney with nearly three decades of experience representing a wide range of clients. This includes individuals who have suffered an injury due to another’s actions, individuals facing criminal charges, those who have been arrested for DWI, individuals who have found themselves in a civil litigation dispute, and those looking for legal guidance in business.
After filling out a client intake form, Attorney Lanease D. Fuller will take appropriate action in your case to help you get the results you are looking for. This includes but not limited to gathering evidence, going to trial, and earning a settlement that is appropriate for your specific situation. Reach out to us today to take the first step towards settling your case.
LANEASE D. FULLER LAW
4615 S. Frwy St. 820
Houston, TX 77051
713-439-7400
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