Small Business

Operating a small business through a formal entity such as a limited liability company or corporation will provide liability protection to owners. Lighthouse prepares formation documents, operating agreements or bylaws, instructions for entity filings and maintenance, and files the appropriate documents with the Secretary of State.

In addition to formation documents, Lighthouse will draft or review a variety of other contracts that arise in small business operation: 

• Employment Agreements

• Independent Contractor Agreements

• Contracts for the sale of services

• Privacy Policies

• Terms and Conditions

• Leases

• Licenses

• Confidentiality Agreements

• NDAs and Noncompete Agreements

• Promissory Notes and Loan Agreements

• Security Agreements

• Liability Waivers

• Settlement and Release Agreements

• and more

Estate plans for individuals or families that operate family businesses require a succession plan that can be effectuated by the a will, trust, or traditional buy-sell agreement. Tax outcomes will be different for sales and gifts of business interests, and the timing of the gifts - whether in life or at death - will further impact taxes and planning requirements.