Virginia Beach Corporate & Commercial Planning Lawyers
- A corporate lawyer serves an important role, advising business clients of specific rights, expected responsibilities, and required duties under the law.
- If you are starting a new business, a corporate attorney can help you by correctly setting up your company, preparing corporate governance documents, drafting initial contracts, and more.
- Working with a corporate and commercial lawyer will be highly beneficial to existing companies, especially in the following areas: contracts, compliance, mergers & acquisitions, securities, commercial financing, and succession planning.
- The attorneys with Midgett Preti Olansen are highly experienced in the complexities of corporate law and work with both new and existing businesses in the Hampton Roads area.
Whether you are starting a new business or continuing an established one, you must clear several legal hurdles. Between government regulations and paperwork, keeping everything in order and up to code can be difficult.
The last thing you want is to feel overwhelmed, which can lead to costly mistakes. A skilled corporate and commercial lawyer understands the needs of new and existing businesses and how to help you protect and grow your company. Wherever you are in your business journey, the Virginia Beach corporate and commercial planning lawyers with Midgett Preti Olansen can help.
What is a Corporate and Commercial Lawyer?
A corporate and commercial lawyer advises business clients on their rights, responsibilities, and duties under the law. This type of lawyer represents the corporation itself, not employers or shareholders, and actions are mostly transactional in nature.
In addition, corporations are subject to rather complex federal and state regulations, and an attorney educated and trained in this area of the law will help keep your business in compliance.
Is a Corporate Lawyer the Same as a Business Lawyer?
A corporate lawyer is often called a business lawyer and vice versa. Both titles refer to the same thing: a lawyer who helps businesses.
How a Corporate Lawyer Helps New Businesses
Starting a business brings with it both excitement and unique challenges. Business lawyers help business owners meet their goals and comply with the law. By retaining legal representation early in the business formation process, you can save time (and money) associated with making mistakes, and protect your company from future litigation beginning your business with confidence.
Examples of the type of services the corporate attorneys with Midgett Preti Olansen can offer a new business include:
- Setting up your business correctly and preparing the organizing documents (e.g., articles of incorporation)
- Creating corporate governance guidelines and documentation (e.g., bylaws, compensation plans, and various internal policies)
- Negotiating, drafting, and reviewing vendor and supplier contracts and agreements
- Assisting with obtaining tax ID numbers
- Establishing the initial bank account or recommending a business accountant
- Applying for a business license
- Reviewing leasing agreements for office space or equipment
You should meet with your corporate legal counsel early in the business planning stages. By working with a business lawyer from the beginning, you can establish your company on a solid foundation.
How a Commercial Lawyer Helps Existing Businesses
A commercial lawyer is uniquely qualified to help protect an existing business while allowing it to grow.
The attorneys with Midgett Preti Olansen are experienced in handling all aspects of business representation long after their initial planning and start-up phase. We can advise you on business law, guide you throughout the growing stage, and even plan for the ultimate succession or sale of the business down the road.
Services commonly provided by our corporate and commercial planning lawyers include:
- Formation of corporations, partnerships, and limited liability companies
- Representation of clients in acquisitions and sales of business entities
- Commercial real estate development
- Tax planning
- Contract drafting and negotiations
- Shareholder and partnership drafts, negotiations, and agreements
- Commercial financing
- Lease reviews and negotiations
Our experienced attorneys assist many small businesses in navigating the complex laws, rules, and regulations imposed by government agencies. We can represent your company in IRS and state audits and help resolve outstanding income, sales, use, and property tax deficiencies. We can also advise you on employment law to help defend against potential litigation from employees.
Knowing you have an attorney you can trust to advise you on these critical business matters can give you peace of mind that you are doing all you can to keep your business safe and confidently moving forward into the future.
What Does it Mean to Have a Lawyer on Retainer?
Having a lawyer on retainer means that a business or an individual pays a lawyer or law firm a fee in advance for legal services that may be required in the future. This arrangement allows the client to have immediate access to legal advice and representation without having to search for a lawyer when an urgent legal issue arises.
The “retainer” itself usually refers to the initial payment made by the client to the lawyer. This payment serves two main purposes:
Securing Legal Services: The retainer fee guarantees that the lawyer will be available to provide legal services as needed. This can be particularly useful for businesses or individuals who anticipate requiring ongoing legal assistance, such as contract reviews, legal consultations, or representation in potential disputes.
Establishing Priority: By paying a retainer fee, the client pays for their legal needs to be prioritized by their business lawyer. This is especially valuable in situations where timely legal intervention is critical, such as during negotiations, litigation, or regulatory issues.
How Much Does It Cost to Have a Lawyer on Retainer?
The cost of having a lawyer on retainer can vary widely depending on several factors, including the lawyer’s experience and reputation, the complexity of the legal issues, the geographical location, and the scope of services needed. If you are interested in hiring a business lawyer on retainer, schedule a consultation by calling 757-687-8888 or using our online contact form.
Why Work With Midgett Preti Olansen
When it comes to your business, you want someone you can trust to provide all the legal advice and guidance you need when you need it. Our Virginia Beach law firm has years of experience working with business clients, from the initial planning and start-up phases to the growth or sale of your business. We have a combined 100+ years of service in the Hampton Roads area, and we never shy away from the complex issues companies face daily. We remain committed to excellence and will work diligently on your company’s behalf.
Testimonials
“Ann Larkin was professional, knowledgeable and available for questions. She is also personable and understandable. I would not hesitate to call her for information expertise.” — Judy L.
“Wonderful attorneys and legal assistants!!! 10/10 recommend.” — Will W.
Dedicated Legal Counsel for Virginia Entrepreneurs
Many factors and potential complications can arise when starting or growing your business. A reliable corporate and commercial lawyer can help you lower the risk of making the wrong move or failing to act promptly.
Start today by contacting Midgett Preti Olansen for all your business needs. Call 757-687-8888 or use our online contact form to schedule your consultation, and let’s see how we can work together.