Legal Issues Impacting Startups

When starting a business, founders must be aware of the many legal issues that may apply to them. A startup IP and patent lawyer can help address matters such as the following:

• Clarifying business relationships
  A business with multiple partners or founders needs to establish and document clear guidelines on issues such as roles and responsibilities, equity, and the rights of partners who leave the business. 
• Incorporation and choosing the right business structure
  A startup will want to incorporate as soon as possible to protect the owners from liabilities. There are several types of business structures. The most popular types are Sole Proprietorship, LLC, S Corporation, and Partnership. There are differing costs, tax implications, and protection associated with each type. 
• Permits and licenses
  Businesses are required to apply for many permits and licenses, which vary according to location and industry. This may include local zoning permits, state sales tax licenses, and industry-specific licenses. Startups are not always aware of all these regulations and may face penalties for not complying.
• Protecting intellectual property
  Patents, copyrights, and/or trademarks are essential for protecting intellectual property such as software, processes, inventions, and so much more. A startup attorney can help businesses choose the right type of protection. It’s crucial for businesses to safeguard IP as soon as possible.

These are some common legal concerns that affect all startups in one way or another. Many founders are focused primarily on business and marketing concerns and do not have the sufficient time to spend on legal matters until there is a problem. Being proactive and consulting with a startup law firm helps businesses avoid costly legal issues in the future.

Bochner Services for Startups

When seeking a business lawyer for a startup company, it’s important to find a law firm with a strong track record. Bochner is a nationwide law firm, with years of experience in the technology sector. Our services include the following:

• Applying for and registering patents, copyrights, and trademarks — Copyrights protect intellectual and artistic creations such as books, recordings, works of art, and software. Trademarks protect logos and brand names. Patents protect inventions, which can be products or processes.
• Business law — Transactional law includes many issues involving contracts and agreements that startups as well as more experienced companies may face, including software licensing agreements, non-compete clauses, non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), shareholder agreements, master service agreements (MSAs), end-user license agreements (EULAs) and more. 
• Litigation — Dealing with issues such as patent, trademark, trade secret, or copyright infringement. Businesses may also need representation if they are accused of IP infringements by other companies.
• IP Strategy — Startups can benefit by forming an intellectual property strategy to make the best use of their assets.