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Most entrepreneurs will need legal assistance—especially at the start up stage of the business. You have critical decisions to make: ones that require assistance to make and to carry out.

One critical decision that will need to be made early in the planning of your business is what type of business entity is best for your business. Is it sole proprietorship, partnership, LLP, LLC, incorporation? What are the tax consequences of each? What personal liability will you have for your business? How do you set up the proper framework for your chosen option? These are questions that require you to work closely with an attorney. Your attorney will also help with capital needs and financing, leases of real estate and equipment. He or she will assist with the agreements you will need with suppliers, customers, employees.

Selecting an attorney is important.  You will want to include these factors in your decision: recommendations from other businesses, local bar association, SCORE or SBA; expertise in business entities, taxation, securities, contracts. It is important that the attorney be compatible with your view on all business issues.