Small Business Lawyers for Peoria, Illinois

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Meet some of our Peoria Small Business Lawyers

Richard P. - Small Business Lawyer in Peoria, Illinois
View Richard
5.0 (1)
Member Since:
July 14, 2020
Octavia P. - Small Business Lawyer in Peoria, Illinois
View Octavia
5.0 (2)
Member Since:
January 30, 2021

Octavia P.

Attorney
Free Consultation
Chicago, IL
19 Yrs Experience
Licensed in IL NY
The John Marshall Law School

I am a business law attorney with over 15 years’ experience and a strong background in information technology. I am a graduate of the University of California Berkeley, a member of the Illinois bar, New York bar and a licensed lawyer (Solicitor) of England and Wales. I actively partner directly with my clients or indirectly, as Of Counsel, to boutique law firms to streamline business practices and manage legal risks by focusing on essentials such as - business contracts, corporate structure, employment/independent contractor agreements, website terms and policies, IP, technology, and commercial related agreements as well as business risk and compliance guidance.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Octavia P. is very responsive and knowledgeable. She was able to make changes for me in less than a day, and was able to make adjustments and changes as needed."

Talin H. - Small Business Lawyer in Peoria, Illinois
View Talin
5.0 (1)
Member Since:
July 29, 2021

Talin H.

Owner
Free Consultation
Chicago
17 Yrs Experience
Licensed in IL
DePaul College of Law

Talin has over a decade of focused experience in business and international law. She is fiercely dedicated to her clients, thorough, detail-oriented, and gets the job done.

Melissa G. - Small Business Lawyer in Peoria, Illinois
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5.0 (1)
Member Since:
August 5, 2021

Melissa G.

Managing Attorney
Free Consultation
Chicago
22 Yrs Experience
Licensed in IL DC, MI, OH
University of Michigan

I provide practical, plain-English legal guidance to solopreneurs and small businesses who want to build strong foundations and make informed decisions with confidence. With 20+ years of experience—including 16 years in-house advising senior and executive leaders—I bring the insight of a trusted legal partner who understands how legal strategy supports long-term business growth. My clients walk away feeling supported, seen, and empowered. They know I genuinely care about their success and bring more than just legal knowledge—I bring a coach’s mindset, a problem-solver’s lens, and a commitment to helping them protect what they’ve worked hard to build. Whether you’re reviewing contracts, forming your business, protecting your brand, or need ongoing legal support, I’m here to deliver clear, actionable guidance and solutions that fit your business.

Daliah S. - Small Business Lawyer in Peoria, Illinois
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5.0 (1)
Member Since:
September 1, 2021

Daliah S.

Principal Attorney
Free Consultation
Chicago, IL
22 Yrs Experience
Licensed in IL
University of Illinois College of Law

Daliah Saper operates a cutting-edge internet and social media law practice that regularly leads local and national media outlets to solicit her commentary on emerging internet law issues involving cyberbullying, sexting, catfishing, revenge porn, anonymous online defamation, domain name and user-name squatting, privacy, and the latest business decisions made by social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. As a litigator Daliah represents companies bringing or defending business and intellectual property disputes. (She has argued cases in a number of jurisdictions including taking a case all the way to the Illinois Supreme Court.) As a transactional lawyer she helps clients choose the right business entity, drafts contracts and licensing agreements, advises on sweepstakes and contest rules, and ensures website terms of use and privacy policies are compliant, and provides comprehensive trademark and copyright counseling. Since founding Saper Law Offices in 2005, Daliah has been named a 40 Under 40 by Law Bulletin Publishing Co., a top Media & Advertising attorney by Super Lawyers Magazine 14 years in a row, and has been repeatedly recognized as a leading media and entertainment lawyer by Chambers and Partners. For the past eleven years, she also has taught entertainment and social media law at Loyola University Chicago School of Law.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Excellent! I couldn't be more satisfied with their professionalism and prompt service."

Billy Joe M. - Small Business Lawyer in Peoria, Illinois
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5.0 (3)
Member Since:
October 26, 2021

Billy Joe M.

Partner Attorney
Free Consultation
Chicago, IL
17 Yrs Experience
Licensed in IL
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

I graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2006 with a degree in Political Science, Finance, and Economics. I stayed around Champaign for law school and graduated in 2009. I then worked at a big law firm in downtown Chicago. It was boring, so I quit in early 2011. I thought that I could not be happy practicing law - I was wrong. After I quit the traditional law firm life, I began representing my own clients. I realize now that I love helping normal people, small business owners, and non-profits address a variety of legal issues. I hope to hear from you.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Billy Joe was great to work with on a demand letter related to a HOA dispute. He was understanding of my situation, thorough in communication, and worked with me through a complex situation. I'm not a lawyer and he was very personable, as well as responsive. Highly recommended!"

Michael B. - Small Business Lawyer in Peoria, Illinois
View Michael
4.9 (40)
Member Since:
October 30, 2020

Michael B.

Attorney
Free Consultation
Illinois
16 Yrs Experience
Licensed in IL MN, WI
University of the Pacific

Michael has extensive experience advising companies from start-ups to established publicly-traded companies . He has represented businesses in a wide array of fields IT consulting, software solutions, web design/ development, financial services, SaaS, data storage, and others. Areas of expertise include contract drafting and negotiation, terms of use, business structuring and funding, company and employee policies, general transactional issues as well as licensing and regulatory compliance. His prior experience before entering private practice includes negotiating sales contracts for a Fortune 500 healthcare company, as well as regulatory compliance contracts for a publicly traded dental manufacturer. Mr. Brennan firmly believes that every business deserves a lawyer that is both responsive and dependable, and he strives to provide that type of service to every client.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Michael was professional, responsive, and thorough throughout the project. He addressed my concerns, made the requested revisions, and delivered comprehensive legal documents tailored to my business. He completed the agreed work within budget. I would recommend his services."

T. Phillip B. - Small Business Lawyer in Peoria, Illinois
View T. Phillip
4.8 (5)
Member Since:
August 10, 2021

T. Phillip B.

Attorney
Free Consultation
Illinois
30 Yrs Experience
Licensed in IL
Drake University Law School

Attorney creating plans and strategies to help individuals create, build, protect and pass on wealth.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Very knowledgeable, helpful and responsive, does comprehensive work on short notice. I would recommend and work with again."

Samantha B. - Small Business Lawyer in Peoria, Illinois
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Member Since:
April 15, 2021

Samantha B.

Principal and Founder
Free Consultation
Chicago
12 Yrs Experience
Licensed in IL FL
Ave Maria School of Law

Samantha has focused her career on developing and implementing customized compliance programs for SEC, CFTC, and FINRA regulated organizations. She has worked with over 100 investment advisers, alternative asset managers (private equity funds, hedge funds, real estate funds, venture capital funds, etc.), and broker-dealers, with assets under management ranging from several hundred million to several billion dollars. Samantha has held roles such as Chief Compliance Officer and Interim Chief Compliance Officer for SEC-registered investment advisory firms, “Of Counsel” for law firms, and has worked for various securities compliance consulting firms. Samantha founded Coast to Coast Compliance to make a meaningful impact on clients’ businesses overall, by enhancing or otherwise creating an exceptional and customized compliance program and cultivating a strong culture of compliance. Coast to Coast Compliance provides proactive, comprehensive, and independent compliance solutions, focusing primarily on project-based deliverables and various ongoing compliance pain points for investment advisers, broker-dealers, and other financial services firms.

Daniel R. - Small Business Lawyer in Peoria, Illinois
View Daniel
Member Since:
July 1, 2021

Daniel R.

Managing Attorney
Free Consultation
Chicago
13 Yrs Experience
Licensed in IL
Gonzaga School of Law

Daniel is an experienced corporate attorney and works closely with corporations, privately held companies, high-net worth individuals, family offices, start-ups and entrepreneurs. Daniel graduated from the Gonzaga University School of Law and is licensed to practice law in Illinois.

Gerald W. - Small Business Lawyer in Peoria, Illinois
View Gerald
Member Since:
August 28, 2021

Gerald W.

Attorney
Free Consultation
Round Rock, Texas
12 Yrs Experience
Licensed in IL TX
Valparaiso University School of Law

My clients know me as more than just an attorney. First and foremost, my background is much broader than that. Prior to attending the Valparaiso University School of Law, I earned a Master of Business Administration and ran a small business as a certified public accountant. Thanks to this experience, I possess unique insight which in turn allows me to better assist my clients with a wide range of business and tax matters today. In total, I have over 20 years of experience in financial management, tax law, and business consulting, and I’m proud to say that I’m utilizing the knowledge I’ve gained to assist the community of Round Rock in a variety of ways. In my current practice, I provide counsel to small to medium-sized businesses, nonprofit organizations, and everyday individuals. Though my primary areas of practice are estate planning, elder law, business consulting, and tax planning, I pride myself on assisting my clients in a comprehensive manner. Whenever I take on a new client, I make an effort to get to know them on a personal level. This, of course, begins with listening. It is important that I fully understand their vision so I can help them successfully translate it into a concrete plan of action that meets their goals and expectations. I appreciate the individual attributes of each client and know firsthand that thoughtful, creative, and customized planning can maximize both financial security and personal happiness. During my time as a certified public accountant, I cultivated an invaluable skill set. After all, while my legal education has given me a deep understanding of tax law, I would not be the tax attorney I am today without my background in accounting. Due to my far-reaching experience, I am competent in unraveling even the most complex tax mysteries and disputes. My CPA training benefits my estate planning practice, too. In the process of drafting comprehensive wills and trusts, I carefully account for every asset and plan for any tax burdens that may arise, often facilitating a much smoother inheritance for the heirs of my clients. Prior to becoming certified as a CPA, I made sure to establish a solid foundation in business both in and out of the classroom, and the acumen I’ve attained has served me well. Not only am I better able to run my own practice than I otherwise would be; I am able to help other small business owners fulfill their dreams, as well.

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Small Business Legal Questions and Answers

Small Business

Business Entity

Illinois

Asked on Mar 17, 2022

I have an LLC for rental investment. Can i use the LLC to do independent corp to corp work.

Currently employed, with investment property under LLC. Would like to do independent contract work.

T. Phillip B.

Answered Mar 25, 2022

The question isn't whether you can do it, but is whether you SHOULD do it. You definitely would be able to do other work within the LLC. However, in doing so, now you active work and passive income are getting combined which would likely subject your passive income to the 15.3% self employment tax. Let me know if you have any questions on how to structure the businesses.

Read 1 attorney answer>

Small Business

Waiver And Release Agreement

Texas

Asked on Feb 11, 2022

I am a tennis coach as a side hustle in Austin, TX. Considering getting basic general liability coverage with an insurance company. If I do I would need to have my students sign a waiver. Is this something you can help with and is it absolutely necessary to have the document notarized or not?

I am a tennis coach as a side hustle in Austin, TX. Considering getting basic general liability coverage with an insurance company. If I do I would need to have my students sign a waiver. Is this something you can help with and is it absolutely necessary to have the document notarized or not?

Kelvin R.

Answered Mar 18, 2022

A waiver and release of liability is a good idea. We can draft a provision for you to include in your existing agreement or as a stand alone waiver agreement. It is not necessary that waiver be notarized.

Read 1 attorney answer>

Small Business

Joint Operating Agreement

North Carolina

Asked on Jun 11, 2025

Can a Joint Operating Agreement be terminated unilaterally?

I am currently a partner in a joint venture with two other individuals, and we have a Joint Operating Agreement in place. However, due to significant disagreements and conflicts of interest, I am considering terminating the agreement unilaterally. I would like to know if it is legally possible for me to do so, and what potential consequences or liabilities I may face in such a scenario.

Christopher N.

Answered Jun 13, 2025

The short answer is: it depends. The (properly drafted) document itself should discuss a dissolution of the agreement. Absent specific terms in the agreement, state contract and/or business law would control how to disolve the agreement and your partnership. We highly recommend you consult with an expereienced business or contracts attorney that can help the parties resolve their differences: beit working to reestablish or amicably disolve the relationship. Good luck.

Read 1 attorney answer>

Small Business

Commercial Lease

North Carolina

Asked on Apr 22, 2023

What's the repair responsibility in a commercial lease?

I am a small business owner in the process of signing a commercial lease for a retail space. I am trying to understand my responsibilities as the tenant regarding repairs and maintenance of the property. I want to make sure I understand what my repair responsibility is in the lease before signing it.

N'kia N.

Answered May 30, 2023

In a North Carolina commercial lease agreement, it is common for the landlord to be responsible for major maintenance and repairs (including structural issues) and the tenant to be responsible for minor maintenance and repairs (including general wear and tear). However, the landlord and the tenant may agree to alternative arrangements in the written lease. The best way to more fully understand your specific maintenance and repair responsibilities under a specific lease agreement is to have an attorney review the agreement and discuss it with you. Good luck!

Read 1 attorney answer>

Small Business

C Corp

North Carolina

Asked on Jul 16, 2023

C corp vs. S corp: Which is better?

I am currently starting a new business and am trying to decide which corporate structure is best for my particular situation. I have heard that C corps and S corps have different advantages and disadvantages, so I am looking to get legal advice as to which would be more beneficial for me. I understand that there are many factors to consider, such as taxation, liability, and potential for growth, so I am hoping to get a better understanding of the pros and cons of each structure and which would be the most suitable for my needs.

Nicholas M.

Answered Aug 1, 2023

It would be impossible to give you a primer on all of the advantages and disadvantages, but here is a headnote version: C-Corp Pros: Ultimate flexibility with regards to ownership, control, power, etc through the issuance of one or more classes of shares. Cons: Double taxed. You will be taxes as a corporation and as an individual taking a salary from the corporation. S-Corp (this is just a C-Corp electing to be taxed under subchapter S of the IRS code): Pros: Tax advantage for owners (up to 100 people) from not double taxing. Cons: Less flexibility than C-Corp but more granular control than LLC. Depending on the situation, most companies starting out are better off starting an LLC, which has less formalities, and then converting to a S-Corp or C-Corp once they scale and can take advantage. C-Corp, S-Corp, and LLC all have the same level of liability protection if you follow the formalities for formation and maintenance. C-Corps have the most rigor and LLCs have the least. You can also consider LLP and other business structures based on co-owners or other factors that a lawyer can help you evaluate.

Read 1 attorney answer>
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