Business
Law

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need an LLC, or can I just operate as a sole proprietor? +

Operating as a sole proprietor means your personal assets (savings, home, car) are exposed if your business faces a lawsuit or debt. An LLC creates a legal separation between you and your business. For beauty entrepreneurs selling products or providing services, this protection is not optional. It is foundational. The specific structure that makes sense (LLC, S-corp, etc.) depends on your revenue, growth plans, and state of operation. A conversation with an attorney can clarify which entity gives you the right combination of liability protection and tax efficiency.

What is a Fractional General Counsel, and do I need one? +

A Fractional General Counsel is an experienced business attorney who serves your company on an ongoing, part-time basis, handling contracts, regulatory questions, vendor negotiations, and legal strategy, without the cost of a full-time in-house counsel. It is well-suited for growing businesses that regularly encounter legal questions but are not ready to hire a full-time attorney. If you find yourself repeatedly sending contracts to a lawyer for one-off reviews, or making business decisions without legal input because it feels too expensive to call every time, fractional GC services may be worth exploring.

What should I look for in a commercial lease before signing? +

Commercial leases are heavily negotiated documents. Unlike residential leases, most protections that apply to tenant-landlord relationships for homes do not apply here. Key terms to scrutinize include: the base rent and escalation clauses (how much it can increase and when), who is responsible for repairs and tenant improvements, personal guarantee provisions, assignment and subletting rights, and what happens at the end of the term. Many business owners sign leases presented by landlords without understanding the risk they are taking on. Having an attorney review or negotiate the lease before signing is one of the highest-return legal investments a growing business can make.

I need a contract for my business. Can you draft one for me? +

Yes. Contract drafting and review is a core service. Whether you need a client services agreement, an independent contractor agreement, a vendor agreement, a partnership agreement, or a custom contract for a unique business relationship, starting with a properly drafted document protects your interests from the outset. Many founders rely on templates found online, which may not be enforceable in your state, may not reflect your actual deal terms, and may contain provisions that work against you. A custom contract drafted for your specific situation is almost always worth the investment.

What is involved in a business transaction like an acquisition or asset purchase? +

Business transactions (buying or selling a business or its assets) involve due diligence (reviewing the other party's contracts, liabilities, and legal status), negotiating and drafting the purchase agreement, addressing representations and warranties, and closing the deal. The complexity varies significantly based on the size and structure of the transaction. Having counsel who understands both the legal mechanics and the business realities of what you are trying to accomplish is essential for protecting your interests.

What is a buy-sell agreement and does my business need one? +

A buy-sell agreement governs what happens to a co-owner's interest in the business when a triggering event occurs: death, disability, divorce, or a partner wanting to exit. Without one, you could end up co-owning your business with a deceased partner's spouse, or locked in a dispute with a departing partner over valuation. For any business with more than one owner, a buy-sell agreement is essential. It sets the rules in advance, before emotions run high and the stakes are real.