Small Business Lawyers for Springfield, Illinois
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Meet some of our Springfield Small Business Lawyers
Billy Joe M.
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.
"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!"
Mathew K.
Mathew Kerbis is The Subscription Attorney. He’s on a mission to affordably serve clients at scale via the subscription model and inspire attorneys to abandon the billable hour. He founded the law firm Subscription Attorney LLC after working for private practice law firms for nine years. His firm leverages automations and artificial intelligence to offer more accessible and reasonable prices like legal advice starting at $19.99/month and $49.99/page.
"Mathew was pleasant and professional. He passed along great legal knowledge and provided an excellent service at a reasonable rate. I would definitely use his services again."
Zachary J.
I am a solo-practitioner with a practice mostly consisting of serving as a fractional general counsel to growth stage companies. With a practical business background, I aim to bring real-world, economically driven solutions to my client's legal problems and pride myself on efficient yet effective work.
"Zack was excellent throughout the entire transaction process. He was thorough, responsive, detail-oriented, and did a great job protecting my interests in the agreements. His guidance and professionalism gave me confidence through a complex deal. Highly recommend working with him."
Dan "Dragan" I.
I received a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Northwestern University in 1996 and then got my JD at University of Illinois College of Law in 1999. I have been a lawyer helping people with legal issues in the United States and Internationally since then. That includes drafting and reviewing contracts. I am also passionate about helping small and medium businesses with trademark registration and trademark-related legal projects. The law can be confusing and complicated for people, and I am passionate about providing professional legal services to my clients while simultaneously making the legal process less confusing and stressful for them. My goal is to help clients navigate through both good and difficult times by tailoring my skills, experience, and services to their specific needs.
"Dan was thorough, responsive, and explained the trademark process clearly. Highly recommended."
Curt B.
Curt Brown has experience advising clients on a variety of franchising, business litigation, transactional, and securities law matters. Mr. Brown's accolades include: - Super Lawyers Rising Star - California Lawyer of the Year by The Daily Journal - Pro Bono Attorney of the Year the USC Public Interest Law Fund Curt started his legal career in the Los Angeles office of the prestigious firm of Irell & Manella LLP, where his practice focused on a wide variety of complex civil litigation matters, including securities litigation, antitrust, trademark, bankruptcy, and class action defense. Mr. Brown also has experience advising mergers and acquisitions and international companies concerning cyber liability and class action defense. He is admitted in California, Florida, D.C., Washington, Illinois, Colorado, and Michigan.
"I was very impressed with the responsiveness and knowledge brought to my situation."
Tina R.
15 years for legal experience; expertise in contracts, healthcare, ERISA, physicians, financial services, commercial contracts, employment agreements, etc. I am adept at all contracts and can provide you with efficient and quality services. I have worked at a law firm, financial services company, consulting ,and non-profit.
"Tina provided collaborative and professional work that helped me understand my employment contract."
Ryenne S.
My name is Ryenne Shaw and I help business owners build businesses that operate as assets instead of liabilities, increase in value over time and build wealth. My areas of expertise include corporate formation and business structure, contract law, employment/labor law, business risk and compliance and intellectual property. I also serve as outside general counsel to several businesses across various industries nationally. I spent most of my early legal career assisting C.E.O.s, General Counsel, and in-house legal counsel of both large and smaller corporations in minimizing liability, protecting business assets and maximizing profits. While working with many of these entities, I realized that smaller entities are often underserved. I saw that smaller business owners weren’t receiving the same level of legal support larger corporations relied upon to grow and sustain. I knew this was a major contributor to the ceiling that most small businesses hit before they’ve even scratched the surface of their potential. And I knew at that moment that all of this lack of knowledge and support was creating a huge wealth gap. After over ten years of legal experience, I started my law firm to provide the legal support small to mid-sized business owners and entrepreneurs need to grow and protect their brands, businesses, and assets. I have a passion for helping small to mid-sized businesses and startups grow into wealth-building assets by leveraging the same legal strategies large corporations have used for years to create real wealth. I enjoy connecting with my clients, learning about their visions and identifying ways to protect and maximize the reach, value and impact of their businesses. I am a strong legal writer with extensive litigation experience, including both federal and state (and administratively), which brings another element to every contract I prepare and the overall counsel and value I provide. Some of my recent projects include: - Negotiating & Drafting Commercial Lease Agreements - Drafting Trademark Licensing Agreements - Drafting Ambassador and Influencer Agreements - Drafting Collaboration Agreements - Drafting Service Agreements for service-providers, coaches and consultants - Drafting Master Service Agreements and SOWs - Drafting Terms of Service and Privacy Policies - Preparing policies and procedures for businesses in highly regulated industries - Drafting Employee Handbooks, Standard Operations and Procedures (SOPs) manuals, employment agreements - Creating Employer-employee infrastructure to ensure business compliance with employment and labor laws - Drafting Independent Contractor Agreements and Non-Disclosure/Non-Competition/Non-Solicitation Agreements - Conducting Federal Trademark Searches and filing trademark applications - Preparing Trademark Opinion Letters after conducting appropriate legal research - Drafting Letters of Opinion for Small Business Loans - Drafting and Responding to Cease and Desist Letters I service clients throughout the United States across a broad range of industries.
"I was looking for solid expertise and a quick turnaround. Ryenne, you delivered perfectly. THANKS."
Clara D.
October 8, 2021
Clara D.
Clara Duffield is a seasoned financial services, technology, privacy, business, intellectual property, and real estate lawyer, with in-house and large firm experience. She currently represents a range of clients, from start-ups to large, heavily-regulated companies, in a wide variety of transactional matters. After graduating from The University of Chicago Law School, Clara spent eight years in private practice representing clients in complex commercial real estate, merger and acquisition, branding, and other transactional matters. Clara then worked as in-house counsel to a large financial services company, handling intellectual property, vendor contracts, technology, privacy, cybersecurity, licensing, marketing, and otherwise supporting general operations. She opened her own practice in September of 2017. Duffield Law provides strategic and flexible representation to businesses of all sizes. Its clients include entrepreneurs and early-stage startups to Fortune 100 companies. From outside general counsel or volume work to discreet assignments, our small firm model allows us the flexibility to provide only the legal services a client needs, without sacrificing the quality all clients deserve. With a depth of in-house and large law firm experience, we work with clients to thoughtfully assess risk, identify and engage subject matter experts, and manage legal spend.
March 26, 2022
Neilson B.
Hi, I am the founding member of Son of Brown Law Firm, based in Charlotte North Carolina. Our firm practices in the areas of Business Transactions, Cannabis/Hemp, Personal Injury and Immigration Law.
August 30, 2022
David A.
David Alexander advises clients on complex real estate transactions, including the acquisition, disposition, construction, financing and leasing of shopping centers, office buildings and industrial buildings throughout the U.S. An experienced real estate attorney, David reviews, drafts and negotiates all manner of retail, office and industrial real estate agreements, including purchase and sale agreements, construction contracts, leases and financing documentation.
September 12, 2022
Wendy C.
Business Advisor and Real Estate Consultant: Small boutique firm working to assist entrepreneurs, business start-ups, property investors, new home buyers, and distressed owners Wendy Calvert began her career as a corporate attorney focusing on complex commercial litigation, primarily in construction, property and casualty, and contractor liability. Through this experience, Wendy has managed and successfully litigated cases in Illinois and Wisconsin. In 2004, Wendy relocated to Illinois to work as an insurance litigation counsel and later as an executive sales consultant and insurance expert. Wendy now utilizes her skills as a contract negotiator, litigator, and sales consultant to negotiate real estate deals and help entrepreneurs create and grow the businesses of their dreams. EDUCATION Wendy earned her Juris Doctor in 1999 from the University of Wisconsin Madison. In 1989, Wendy graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Communications from Marquette University.
October 14, 2022
Jingjing L.
I am a dual qualified (Illinois; England & Wales) transactional lawyer with about 6 years of legal experience. I'm very commercial and pragmatic in my approach, and I provide clear and timely service. I have worked in two of the top international "big law" firms focusing on corporate, private equity, insurance and financial services work. I'm now working in-house at a Fortune 500 company and have a wide range of experience with commercial and corporate contracts as well as legal and regulatory research.
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Browse Lawyers NowSmall Business Legal Questions and Answers
Small Business
Business Entity
Illinois
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.
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.
Small Business
Joint Operating Agreement
North Carolina
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.
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.
Small Business
LLC
Texas
Why hire a lawyer for LLC formation?
I am a small business owner looking to form a Limited Liability Company (LLC). I am aware of the various steps involved in forming an LLC, such as filing paperwork with the state, but I am unsure of the legal ramifications and potential risks associated with this type of business structure. I am seeking advice from a lawyer to understand the legal implications of forming an LLC and to ensure that I am taking the necessary steps to protect my business and my personal assets.
Michael C.
Here are some of the key reasons why it can be beneficial to hire a lawyer when forming an LLC: - Expertise navigating legal requirements - Forming an LLC involves meeting specific legal and regulatory requirements under state law. A business lawyer can help ensure you take all the necessary steps to properly create and register your LLC so that it obtains legal recognition and protections. - Assistance with operating agreement - Lawyers can draft a customized operating agreement that outlines the ownership structure, member responsibilities, profit/loss distributions, voting rights, and other rules governing your LLC. This agreement is important for establishing how your LLC will operate. - Advice on tax implications - LLCs can choose different tax treatments (like being taxed as a sole proprietorship, partnership, S-corp or C-corp). A lawyer can help you understand the tax implications of these options. - Ongoing legal advice - After forming the LLC, you may need guidance on legal issues like liability protection, employing workers, licensing, contracts, intellectual property, etc. A lawyer can provide trusted counsel. - Compliance with regulations - Lawyers stay up-to-date on all current LLC regulations and can help ensure your LLC remains compliant as laws evolve. Non-compliance can result in penalties or loss of LLC status. The bottom line is that an experienced business lawyer can help you avoid potential mistakes when forming an LLC and provide ongoing guidance to maintain the legal protections an LLC provides. Their expertise makes the lawyer fees worthwhile for many small business owners.
Small Business
Fictitious Business Name Statement
Texas
How do I legally operate my business under a different name?
I recently started a small business and I am considering operating it under a different name, commonly referred to as a 'Doing Business As' (DBA) name, for branding purposes. I want to understand the legal process and requirements involved in obtaining and using a DBA name, including any potential restrictions or limitations, to ensure that I comply with all necessary regulations and protect my business interests.
Randy M.
If you're thinking about doing business under a name that’s different from your company’s legal name, you're probably looking at what's called a DBA, or "Doing Business As." It’s a straightforward way to operate under a brand name without having to form a whole new entity, but there’s a formal process involved, and you’ll want to be aware of a few legal limitations. The specifics vary depending on the state you’re in, and sometimes even the county, so it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. That said, most of the core rules are fairly similar across the country. Now, let’s talk about what a DBA actually is. At its core, a DBA is just a trade name. It doesn’t create a new legal entity, and it definitely doesn’t give you any liability protection. It’s often used by sole proprietors who want to operate under something other than their personal name, or by LLCs and corporations that want to launch a new brand, product line, or service without going through the trouble of setting up a whole new business. For example, if you’ve got an LLC called "Smith Holdings LLC" and you decide to open a coffee shop, you might file a DBA for "Sunrise Coffee Roasters." That lets you market the business under the new name while still operating under the legal umbrella of your existing company. When it comes to filing, this is where things start to depend heavily on where you’re doing business. In a lot of states, sole proprietors and partnerships have to file their DBA at the county level. LLCs and corporations usually file with the Secretary of State. There are states where both levels apply, so it’s important to double-check. The application itself is usually short. You’ll need to list the legal business name, the DBA name you want to use, your business address, and some ownership information. Filing fees vary but generally range from ten to one hundred dollars. Certain states also have publication requirements. That means once you file, you might have to publish a legal notice of your new DBA in a local newspaper for a few weeks and then provide proof that you did it. California and New York both have this requirement, although how strictly it’s enforced can vary. Now, you can’t just pick any name you want. The DBA can’t include terms that would mislead someone about your business structure. So if you’re not legally an LLC or a corporation, you can’t include “LLC” or “Inc.” in the name. States also tend to restrict certain words like “bank,” “trust,” or “insurance” unless you have the proper licenses. Before you commit to a name, it’s a smart move to search your state’s business name database to check if the name is available. And don’t stop there. Check the USPTO’s trademark database too. Just because a name is approved locally doesn’t mean it won’t infringe on a federal trademark. Here’s another key point. A DBA is only valid in the area where you register it. So if you plan to do business under that name in more than one county or state, you’ll likely need to register separately in each one. For example, if you're operating in both Florida and Georgia using the same trade name, you’ll probably have to file in both states. If you're going to use the DBA in banking or legal documents, make sure it’s officially filed first. Banks will usually require a copy of your DBA certificate before they’ll open a business account under the trade name. And when you’re drafting contracts or issuing invoices, you should use the DBA consistently, but you should also list your legal entity name to avoid confusion. Something like “ABC Enterprises, LLC, doing business as Coastal Rentals” covers all your bases. Just remember, registering a DBA is not the same as forming a business entity. If you’re a sole proprietor and you want to protect your personal assets, you need to consider forming an LLC or a corporation. A DBA alone doesn’t give you any liability protection, and it doesn’t give you ownership of the name either. Someone else in another county or state could still legally use the same name unless you’ve filed for a trademark. Also, most states require that you renew your DBA every few years. In some places, it’s every three to five years. Texas gives you a ten-year term. New York, on the other hand, treats the registration as indefinite unless you make changes. If you stop using the name, you might need to formally withdraw or cancel it, especially if it’s tied to your bank account or business licenses. A few common mistakes to avoid here. One is assuming that registering a DBA gives you exclusive rights to that name. It doesn’t. Another is using your DBA in a new area without registering it there. That can lead to fines and might even prevent you from enforcing contracts in court. If you’re going to use the DBA online or for branding, secure the domain name early and consider filing for a trademark if you want broader protection. Finally, if you're planning to operate in multiple states, license your brand, or you’re even a little unsure about trademark risks, it’s a good idea to speak with a business attorney. A lawyer can help you determine whether a DBA is the right tool for your situation or if forming a separate entity or filing a trademark would offer stronger protection. If you’re looking for guidance, the attorneys here on Contracts Counsel can assist you with the next steps.
Small Business
Startup Stock Option
Kansas
What are the key elements to include in a startup agreement?
I am in the process of starting a new business with a partner and we want to ensure that we have a solid legal foundation for our venture. We are looking to draft a startup agreement that will outline the rights, responsibilities, and ownership structure for both of us. We want to make sure that all important aspects such as equity distribution, decision-making authority, and exit strategies are properly addressed in the agreement. What are the key elements that should be included in a startup agreement to protect both parties and ensure a smooth operation of our business?
Christopher N.
The answer to your question depends on a variety of factors, the number of partners, the amount of money involved, the underlying business, e.g., is intellectual property involved, or is it restaurant, and the combines risks associated with the business. At a minimum, you need to detail: who owns how much of the company (50/50; 30/70); how much capital is going to be invested by each party and when that money is to be invested; how is that money to be spent and who can spend that money (and what are the limits); what decisions can be made and who has to approve them (vote or unilateral decisions); who is going to manage the day-to-day operations; what are the requirements for adding capital (and where it comes from) ... and how (or when) to withdrawal capital; how are partners added (or withdrawal voluntarily or forcibly); and, much much more. However, many times forming a small company is a very simple affair, but can be complicated. We highly recommend you speak with an attorney that specializes in small businesses. A good attorney will be able to help you with formation, but also be your (non-owner) partner, "outside general counsel," and faciliator of contacts to help you grow your business. Good luck!
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