Once you have an idea for a new business, you’ll likely be anxious to make it a reality. However, starting and running a business takes more than just a great idea: you’ll also have to comply with regulations and various laws. Otherwise, you’re putting your business at risk.
At Dungan & LeFevre, our business attorneys can help ensure your new venture starts on sure footing with a structure that lets you function and eventually grow. Let us guide you through the steps and forms to remain compliant while protecting your interests and considering your needs and budget.
What’s it Take to Start a Business?
Before looking at profits and products, you’ll need to create your business. There are specific ways to structure your company based on your needs, and there are agencies and groups with which you’ll need to notify and register. You’ll also need to follow your industry’s laws and regulations.
We understand that businesses vary, and questions arise. That’s why at Dungan & LeFevre, our business attorneys can address your issues and are prepared to assist with all business formations.
Select a Business Structure
In Ohio, there are a variety of business structures you can use. These structures have advantages and drawbacks, so finding the one that fits your business is critical.
What are Ohio’s most common business structures?
There are nuances for each business structure, some less obvious than others.
A business attorney can break down the different business structures and guide you to the most appropriate structure for your company.
Register Your New Business
After settling on a business structure, you must register with the appropriate agencies. Whom you register with will be determined by the size of your business and industry.
Business attorneys can investigate which agencies you’ll need to register with and ensure your taxes are in order. Companies can be penalized for missing taxes; ignorance isn’t a foolproof defense.
Avoid the risk with a qualified business attorney from Dungan & LeFevre. We’ll help you register with the appropriate entities and be there while your business grows.
Comply with Regulations that Impact Your Business
Once you’ve registered your business and you’re set to begin producing, you’ll have to ensure you’re following several laws. Different businesses will have different regulations. A business attorney can check and help you maintain compliance.
Depending on your product, you may need to ensure your byproducts aren’t toxic or harmful to your environment. Your business will need to have its systems checked and approved. Besides the physical impact you could have on your surroundings, you’ll be required to follow the Consumer Sales Practices Act. This act means your business won’t deceive customers with poor quality work or overcharge them for services you provide.
You’ll also need to comply with any local zoning laws in your area. Some businesses are prohibited from operating in residential areas. Your business attorney can check for any unique or unexpected zoning laws that would keep your business from operating safely or legally.
What Happens If I Don’t Register My Business?
Although these steps may seem exceedingly bureaucratic, they are necessary to operate a business legally. There are consequences for failing to register a business or operating without the proper licenses. If you fail to register your business correctly, you may expect to face a fine or penalty.
Additionally, if you aren’t running a business with the proper licenses, you could face a civil fraud lawsuit, and the court could rule against you because you operated without the proper licensing.
You might be forced to close your business. If your store receives a notice about a renewal or fails to register correctly, law enforcement can shut your business down until the licensing issues are cleared. You may be arrested for fraudulent activities for operating without a license.
If your business isn’t licensed correctly, you might be ineligible to bid on new business opportunities or be forced to delay new products or services.
A Business Lawyer Can Help You Get Started
When you want to open a new business, it’s best to turn to someone dedicated to knowing and practicing business law. An Ohio business attorney like those at Dungan & LeFevre can guide you through the hurdles you must take to establish your new company.
- We can help you choose a structure and name for your business to avoid costly mistakes
- We’ll help you register with the correct agencies to avoid complications and liabilities
- We can help you draft your contracts with employees and business partners to limit legal action
With Dungan & LeFevre, we can intervene on your behalf if you face any legal trouble and work with you to move past it. It’s better to call an attorney before you start your business, but we’re ready to help at any stage of your business.