There are two types of professionals every business should consult early on: an accountant and a lawyer. The reasons for hiring an accountant are obvious—you need someone to help you set up your accounts, review your numbers periodically, and prepare all of your necessary federal, state and local tax returns. The reason for hiring a business attorney may not be so apparent.
A good business attorney will provide vital assistance in almost every aspect of your business, including:
- Formal business formation
- Contract drafting and crafting
- Basic zoning compliance
- Copyright and trademark advice
- Specialized regulatory compliance advice
- Lawsuits and liability risks, and ways to reduce them
- Asset protection