When to Work With a Business Attorney in Washington State

As a small business owner in Washington state, you may wonder whether you’ll ever need to work with a business lawyer. Unless they are facing litigation, many small business owners may not think to enlist the guidance of a business attorney. However, there are several advantages to consulting with a business lawyer, especially if you want to minimize the potential for legal disputes or litigation in the future. Here are some circumstances where working with an attorney can help your business remain as protected as possible.

Drafting and Reviewing Business Contracts

While many business owners feel confident in the strength and clarity of their business contracts, it’s usually a good idea to have a business attorney review these documents. Online templates offer convenience, but they tend to be overly generic and leave small businesses vulnerable to potential legal disputes. Your attorney can review the documents and draft clear language that protects the best interests of your business, minimizing the potential for disagreements later on.

Selecting a Corporate Structure

As you move toward launching a new business, you’ll need to select a structure that best suits your needs. Whether you are interested in starting a sole proprietorship, forming a partnership, establishing a limited liability company (LLC), or choosing a different structure, discussing the advantages and limitations of each choice with a knowledgeable business attorney can help you make your selection with confidence. Each structure carries its own tax implications, so go over your options with an attorney so you can make a fully informed decision.

Navigating Business Disputes

Even if you take steps to minimize the potential for business disputes, an issue may still arise. As soon as you become aware of a dispute involving your business, reach out to an experienced Vancouver business lawyer to discuss the situation. Together, you and your attorney can evaluate your options for resolving the dispute as effectively and efficiently as possible. Whether you pursue mediation or the issue requires litigation, you can trust that your attorney will represent your business’s best interests at every step of the process.

Call John L. Davis PLLC today at (360) 597-4740 to discuss your situation with a trusted and experienced Vancouver business attorney.