Starting a Business - An Overview

Starting a business can be very exciting.  We understand this, we started this business once upon a time.  Simply put, we are still excited.  We enjoy business law, and still get excited about new businesses and new business ideas. Although we offer legal services in several different areas of the law, we must admit that there is nothing like watching a small business start from scratch, work through growing pains, thrive, then come to maturity.  It is wonderful not only to watch how the business changes, but how the owners themselves change over time.  

We love meeting with new or future business owners.  Sometimes they have a lot of questions.  Sometimes they are so overwhelmed, they don’t know where to begin, or don’t even know what questions to ask.

It is the success stories from our successful clients that keep us going, and keep us excited.  At The Piatchek Law Firm, LLC we are lucky to be in a position to witness success stories everyday.  How many people can say that what they do for a living is to help others pursue their dreams?  That is what we do here -we literally get to help clients make their dreams come true - by helping them pursue their life dream of owning and operating their own business.

Conversely, we understand that starting a business can be a daunting and complicated process. The potential business owner must consider numerous factors, including financing the business; setting up a business plan; choosing the correct business organization; naming the business; addressing licensing, permits and zoning matters; hiring and paying employees; and securing business insurance. The law surrounding these areas is diverse and often specific to your locale. An experienced attorney from The Piatchek Law Firm, LLC in Springfield, MO, can assist you today.

Financing, Business Plans and Business Organizations

A prospective business owner will be concerned with financing the new business, setting up a business plan and choosing the best type of business organization. The options for pursuing ownership of a business vary widely. An attorney can help you sort out these matters. The following synopsis will help you start thinking about the important decisions you will have to make.

Naming the Business, Licensing, Permits and Zoning

A new business owner has a lot to think about. The owner must name the business, acquire licenses or permits, and deal with possible zoning concerns. With all of these considerations, the assistance of a business attorney can make the journey smoother and more rewarding.

Hiring Employees

State and federal laws govern the actions of business owners during the hiring and employment process. The new business owner must be aware that the following concerns apply when advertising job openings, interviewing, hiring and supervising employees. A business owner should:

• Avoid illegal discrimination
  Observe and respect privacy rights
  Safeguard against hiring illegal immigrants
  Observe relevant age regulations

It is vital that the new business owner understands the legal aspects of these topics prior to staffing a business. An attorney can advise you on these important employment matters.

Employee Compensation

A new business owner may have questions about the minimum wage, overtime pay, child labor, employee sick leave and record keeping. The US Department of Labor and certain state agencies are charged with enforcing employee rights, and many times the law is complex and detailed. A new business owner should stay informed in order to avoid legal difficulties. An attorney who is competent and experienced in business planning and employment law can assist you with your questions today.

Insurance for the Business and Its Employees

A new business owner should understand the insurance policies that are available for both the business and its employees. It is important to analyze the risk exposure before determining the type and amount of insurance that will best protect the new investment. In addition, laws or contractual agreements may require certain types of policies. An attorney can assist you with your questions today.

Starting a Business Resource Links

Small Business Administration (SBA)
The SBA's mission is to provide assistance and advice to small businesses. This is a great resource for all topics involved with starting a new business.

Department of Labor
The Department of Labor provides guidance on labor regulations for business owners while protecting the interests of workers, retirees and job seekers.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
This US Department of Labor organization advocates for worker safety by setting and enforcing workplace standards and offering guidance for employers.

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
The EEOC is responsible for enforcing anti-discrimination laws, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; the Equal Pay Act (EPA); the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA); and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Employee Benefits Security Administration
This agency, part of the Department of Labor, informs benefit plan administrators of applicable laws; develops and enforces regulations; and helps employees obtain the most out of their pensions, health plans and other benefits.

Springfield, Missouri Business Start Up Attorney

Contact a Springfield, Missouri Business Law Attorney

For caring, professional legal representation, contact our offices to arrange a confidential consultation. Evening and weekend appointments are available upon request and we may be able to arrange a home or business visit if you are unable to travel to our offices.