Business Organization

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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)

OTHER AREAS OF PRACTICE