Business formation · Client guide
Build the legal structure around how the business will actually operate
Formation is more than filing an entity. Ownership, decision rights, capital, compensation, transfers, and exit expectations should be considered at the beginning.
Choosing and forming the entity
The appropriate structure depends on ownership, liability, tax planning, financing, management, and future goals. Legal and tax advisors may need to coordinate.
Documenting ownership and governance
Operating, shareholder, or partnership agreements can define authority, voting, distributions, restrictions, and procedures for major decisions.
Planning for change and conflict
Buy-sell terms, transfer limits, deadlock procedures, departures, disability, death, and dissolution deserve attention before a dispute develops.
Moving from formation to operation
Contracts, licenses, employment practices, records, and recurring compliance should align with the entity and the way the business conducts its work.