Starting a business is probably one of the most exciting, and possibly terrifying things you will ever do. Obtaining specialist legal advice at the outset from QualitySolicitors Oliver & Co will be time well spent and save you expense further down the line.

Who we help:

• Anyone who is looking to go into business whether they propose to operate as Sole Traders, Partnerships, Limited Liability Partnerships, Private companies or PLCs.

Our Corporate & Commercial Team has over twenty years’ experience of advising clients operating across a diverse range of business sectors including construction, engineering, manufacturing, road haulage, hotel and leisure, property management, childcare, care for the elderly, ICT, retail and professional and financial services.

We provide:

• A comprehensive range of corporate and commercial services addressing all the issues faced by a new business start up business support beyond core legal services;
• Pragmatic and cost effective solutions;
• Advice which is tailored and delivered according to your needs.

It is important to consider from the outset the most appropriate vehicle for your business, whether it be:

• Sole Trader
• Partnership
• Limited Liability Partnership
• Limited Company

At QualitySolicitors Oliver & Co, the Corporate & Commercial Team will advise you on the various factors which should be taken into account when that choice is made. Amongst other issues you will need to consider the following:

• Risk - the degree of risk to the new business venture and the potential liability of the participators will vary considerably depending upon the choice of business medium and the area of operation;
• Expense - the legal and administrative costs will generally be higher for a private limited company than for an unincorporated business;
• Management - whether your business is governed by the rules of the company's Articles of Association or a Partnership Agreement, the constitution of the business should be appropriate for your business needs;
• Succession Planning - an early consideration of this issue is very important, but all too often overlooked. What will happen if you wish to sell your interest in the business, retire, leave due to ill health or die?;
• Legal status - there are major differences between the different forms your business might take. For example, a company enjoys a separate legal status (whereas a partnership does not) making it easier to attract investment and raise finance.

Our business start-up advisers drawn from across the Commercial Department can advise you on:

• The form your business should take;
• Your business premises (purchase or letting);
• Your people (employment contracts, handbook, policies and procedures);
• Your standard contracts (terms and conditions of business);
• Financing;
• Your intellectual property rights;
• The regulatory regime in which your business might operate;
• Corporate governance and directors duties.

For further advice and information use the contact form or call Tim Polding on 01244 354697 or 01244 354667 for John Loney.