Austin Law Firm
Business Organization
Many business owners delay hiring a lawyer until they have been sued. However, reacting to a crisis can be much more costly than proactively assessing and managing risk. Hiring a lawyer now can save a company significant money later if a suit is filed. The Austin Law Firm can provide the benefits of an in-house lawyer at affordable flat fees or reasonable hourly rates, depending on the need. In the past, Attorney John Austin has helped many start-up businesses in the Raleigh-Durham area and throughout North Carolina choose the appropriate business entity to achieve business planning goals, maximize profits, minimize personal liability and facilitate an exit or sale at a future date. Working togehter with an accountant or tax advisor, the firm can assist with advising clients on organizing as an S-corp or C-corp status, limited liability company (LLC), limited liability partnership (LLP) or other business entity. After start-up and organization, we assist clients with a full range of general commercial services including:
• Business plan exit strategy
• Counsel on avoiding personal liability
• Board of directors and shareholder meetings
• Buy/sell agreements
• Dissolution of a business partnership, corporation, or limited liability company
• Corporate/LLC governance
• Complying with fiduciary duties
• Equipment leases and capital improvements
• Drafting of employee handbooks and standard contracts
• Employment contracts (including noncompetition covenants)