Small Business Lawyers for New York

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Meet some of our New York Small Business Lawyers

Thomas S. - Small Business Lawyer in New York
View Thomas
5.0 (10)
Member Since:
August 11, 2023

Thomas S.

Attorney
Free Consultation
Boulder, Colorado
31 Yrs Experience
Licensed in NY CO
University of Colorado

28+ years experience. Licensed in Colorado and New York. Areas of expertise: estate planning, wills and trusts; trademark law; patent law; contracts and licensing; small business organization and counseling.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Thomas was very knowledgeable and is great to work with! Thank you very much - looking forward working together again in the future!"

Peter L. - Small Business Lawyer in New York
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5.0 (5)
Member Since:
July 1, 2023

Peter L.

In House Counsel
Free Consultation
Weston Florida
30 Yrs Experience
Licensed in NY FL
Hofstra University

Experienced in house counsel with expertise in contracting, labor and employment, regulatory and compliance and healthcare

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Thank you Peter, you did an amazing job for this medical contract, We appreciate your help and diligience."

Jennifer T. - Small Business Lawyer in New York
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5.0 (5)
Member Since:
July 6, 2023

Jennifer T.

IP/Entertainment Attorney
Free Consultation
New York, NY
7 Yrs Experience
Licensed in NY
Brooklyn Law School

Hello! My name is Jennifer and I practice law in most areas of IP (copyright, trademark, ad tech) with a specialization in entertainment law. I have represented many different content and technology creators, negotiating master service agreements, talent agreements, production agreements, ad agency work, and other IP generalist work.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Jennifer is just professional and productive. She solved our contract dispute effectively."

Michael S. - Small Business Lawyer in New York
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4.9 (7)
Member Since:
April 16, 2023

Michael S.

Managing Partner
Free Consultation
Los Angeles, California
31 Yrs Experience
Licensed in NY CA
Harvard Law School

I began my career at "big law" firms, worked in-house for 14 years, and now have my own practice, providing big law quality at small firm rates. My practice focuses on strategic and commercial transactions, including M&A, preferred stock and common stock offerings, asset purchases and sales, joint ventures and strategic partnerships, stock option plans, master services agreements and SOWs, software development and license agreements, SaaS agreements, NDAs, employment and consulting agreements. I also manage corporate governance, advise boards and executives, and act as outside general counsel. I represent clients across the country and around the world.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
4.0

"Completed most of the work with majority of the answers correct!"

Steven W. - Small Business Lawyer in New York
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4.9 (20)
Member Since:
June 2, 2023

Steven W.

Attorney
Free Consultation
Texas & North Carolina
5 Yrs Experience
Licensed in NY NC, TX
North Carolina Central University

Attorney Steven Wax is ardent about helping his clients. Whether creating personalized estate plans, drafting and negotiating contracts or other legal matters. Steven’s goal is to assist and counsel his clients to protect them and their loved ones. Steven grew up on Long Island, New York. He attended the University of Massachusetts in Amherst earning a BS in Sport Management. He earned his paralegal certificate at Duke University and earned his Juris Doctorate from North Carolina Central University School of Law in Durham, NC. Steven has an extensive legal career in the life science sector, working for some of the world’s largest Contract Research Organizations since 2013. Steven has negotiated a broad range of contracts for both businesses and individuals. Steven participated in the NCCU Elder Law Project, where he prepared wills, durable powers of attorney, living wills, and health care powers of attorneys for low/fixed income clients in Durham and surrounding counties. Steven finds meaningful ways to share his skills and passion with his community. Steven volunteers his time to Wills for Heroes, which provides no-cost estate planning documents to first responders and their families, through the NC Bar Foundation.

Recent  ContractsCounsel Client  Review:
5.0

"Steven was very helpful and informative throughout the process of reviewing my divorce decree, and he completed the project promptly. Thank you, Steven!"

Barbara M. - Small Business Lawyer in New York
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Member Since:
May 23, 2023

Barbara M.

Attorney/Owner
Free Consultation
Massachusetts
35 Yrs Experience
Licensed in NY MA
Albany Law School

In 1991, Barbara Markessinis graduated cum laude from Albany Law School in Albany, New York. Shortly thereafter, Barbara was admitted to practice in New York State and in the United States District Court for the Northern District of New York. In 1997, Barbara was admitted to practice in Massachusetts and in April of 2009 she was admitted to the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts. After graduating from law school, Barbara worked in private practice in the Albany, New York area and for Sneeringer, Monahan, Provost & Redgrave Title Agency, Inc. before joining the New York State Division for Youth and the New York State Attorney General's Real Property Bureau as a Senior Attorney. During her tenure with the Division for Youth, Attorney Markessinis found herself in Manhattan Family Court in front of Judge Judy! A career highlight for sure! After admission to the Massachusetts Bar, Barbara returned to private practice in the Berkshires and eventually started her own firm in June of 2006. Attorney Markessinis offers legal services in elder law, estate planning and administration/probate, family law, limited assistance representation (LAR), real estate and landlord tenant disputes. In 2016, after a family member found themselves in need of long term care, Attorney Markessinis’ launched her elder law practice. Through this experience, Attorney Markessinis discovered that the process of selecting a long term care facility and/or caregiver, applying for MassHealth and preserving an applicant’s assets are serious issues faced by many people every day. This area of the law is Barbara’s passion and she offers her legal services to families who find themselves in need of an elder law attorney. Attorney Markessinis is part of the Volunteer Legal Clinic in the Berkshire Probate & Family Court and has provided limited free legal services to patients and families at Moments House cancer support center in Pittsfield. She currently serves as a Hearing Committee Member for the MA Board of Bar Overseers and is a member of the Berkshire County and Massachusetts Bar Associations, Berkshire County Estate Planning Council (BCEPC). Attorney Markessinis is also the host of WUPE Talks Law. She also serves on the Town of Hancock Zoning Board of Appeals and Planning Board.

Igxtelle M. - Small Business Lawyer in New York
View Igxtelle
Member Since:
February 11, 2026

Igxtelle M.

Managing Attorney
Haslet, Texas
14 Yrs Experience
Licensed in NY DC, TX
Handong International Law School

Licensed Attorney with 14 years of experience in consumer dispute resolution, medical arbitration, mediation, and transactional law

James S. - Small Business Lawyer in New York
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Member Since:
June 14, 2023

James S.

Attorney
Free Consultation
Sardinia, Ohio
14 Yrs Experience
Licensed in NY NJ, OH
Rutgers Camden School of Law

Education Jim Schroeder holds multiple degrees from several institutions. He received his Juris Doctor from Rutgers School of Law in Camden New Jersey. He also earned two additional Master’s Degrees from Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky and United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. In addition, Schroeder has done graduate work in Public Sector Labor Relations and American History at Rutgers University and Nonprofit Leadership at Duke University. Jim Schroeder was admitted to the New Jersey Bar Association in 2008; the District of Columbia Bar Association in 2010; the New York State Bar Association in 2014; and the Ohio Bar Association in 2020. He is also admitted to the Federal Courts of Southern New Jersey and Southern Ohio.

Derek C. - Small Business Lawyer in New York
View Derek
Member Since:
June 19, 2023

Derek C.

Real Estate Attorney
Tampa, Florida
12 Yrs Experience
Licensed in NY FL, NM
Barry University

With over a decade of experience in transactional legal work, I provide clients with comprehensive, practical, and tailored solutions in real estate, business law, and estate planning. My focus is on delivering precise, client-centered services that protect your interests and help you achieve your goals. What I Offer: Real Estate Law: Expertise in drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts for purchases, sales, leases, easements, title documents, and closings. Whether you're dealing with commercial, multifamily, or residential properties, I’ll ensure your transaction is seamless and secure. Business Law: Skilled in forming entities, drafting contracts, and other key negotiations. From startups to established businesses, I provide legal guidance to help you operate and grow with confidence. Estate Planning: Comprehensive estate planning services, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. I work closely with clients to create customized plans that protect their assets and ensure their wishes are honored. Transactional Expertise: A proven track record of navigating complex deals efficiently and accurately, reducing risks and delivering results. Why Work With Me? Client-Centered Approach: I prioritize your unique needs, ensuring tailored solutions and clear communication throughout. Attention to Detail: My meticulous approach ensures that every document, negotiation, and agreement is handled flawlessly. Proven Results: For over 10 years, I’ve helped clients close real estate deals, secure favorable business outcomes, and establish estate plans that offer peace of mind. Let’s work together to secure your future, protect your assets, and simplify complex legal transactions. Contact me today to discuss how I can support your real estate, business, or estate planning needs!

Daniel W. - Small Business Lawyer in New York
View Daniel
Member Since:
June 22, 2023

Daniel W.

Attorney
Free Consultation
New York
25 Yrs Experience
Licensed in NY NJ
HOFSTRA LAW SCHOOL

I am a Spanish-fluent corporate and commercial real estate attorney and broker licensed in New York and New Jersey. My pragmatic approach towards conflict resolution allows me to provide valuable advice to clients on avoiding issues of liability through effective risk management and strategic allocation of resources. I counsel businesses, developers, owners and investors on residential/commercial real estate and corporate transactions involving the acquisition, finance, development, leasing and disposition of all asset classes. In addition, I advise on joint venture partnerships and the negotiation, structure and drafting of operating agreements. Throughout my successful practice, I have held in-house counsel positions at large corporations, including JPMorgan Chase and Duane Reade, and had the privilege of working for the Department of Justice where I honed expertise in all aspects of mortgage-backed securities.

Christine T. - Small Business Lawyer in New York
View Christine
Member Since:
July 17, 2023

Christine T.

Partner
Free Consultation
Albany, NY
8 Yrs Experience
Licensed in NY CT, NJ
UCLA School of Law

Christine E. Taylor focuses her practice in the areas of Hospitality Law, Business Law, Labor and Employment Law, Real Estate Law, Administrative Law, Estate Law and Litigation. Ms. Taylor grew up within the campground industry, working at parks in both the Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Franchise and the Kampgrounds of America Franchise. Armed with two decades of experience, Ms. Taylor is quick to point out the legal issues that apply to outdoor hospitality business owners. She has provided a wide variety of services to campgrounds, RV Parks, and glamping venues, including seasonal licenses, waivers, employment contracts, real estate services and even litigation services as needed.

Rudy C. - Small Business Lawyer in New York
View Rudy
Member Since:
July 19, 2023

Rudy C.

Esq.
Free Consultation
New York
3 Yrs Experience
Licensed in NY
St-John's Law School

As a multilingual attorney, Rudy Cohen-Zardi holds multiple degrees from several institutions worldwide. He has gained experience in leading firms, including Eversheds Sutherland, LLP and Bank of China (NY). He is licensed to practice in New York.

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Small Business Legal Questions and Answers

Small Business

Multi-Member LLC Operating Agreement

New York

Asked on Dec 6, 2024

Can a multi-member LLC operating agreement be amended without the consent of all members?

I am a member of a multi-member LLC and we currently have an operating agreement in place that was agreed upon when the company was formed. However, there have been changes in the business and we feel that certain provisions in the operating agreement need to be amended to better reflect our current needs and goals. Some members are hesitant to make these changes and we are unsure if the operating agreement can be amended without the consent of all members or if unanimous consent is required. We are seeking clarification on the process of amending the operating agreement and the level of consensus needed among the members.

Damien B.

Answered Dec 6, 2024

Hello! My name is Damien Bosco, Esq. My law office is located in Long Island City across from Manhattan. If the operating agreement is silent on amendments, the default rule under New York's Limited Liability Company Law (LLCL) would apply. According to Section 402 with exceptions in Section 417 of the LLC Law, the operating agreement can generally be amended by a majority vote of the members, unless the agreement specifically requires unanimous consent for amendments. However, certain provisions require the consent of a member adversely affected by the amendment.: A) the obligations of any member to make contributions, (B) the allocation for tax purposes of any items of income, gain, loss, deduction, or credit, (C) the manner of computing the distributions of any member or (D) the compromise of an obligation of a member to contribute is contained in the articles of organization. If there are to be amendments without unanimous consent, it is better to have an attorney supervise the amendment process on behave of the LLC to make sure the amendment process is following NY law.

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

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

Startup Stock Option

Kansas

Asked on Jun 12, 2025

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.

Answered Jun 13, 2025

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!

Read 1 attorney answer>

Small Business

LLC

Texas

Asked on Oct 25, 2023

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.

Answered Oct 31, 2023

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.

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