Small Business
Flagstaff Law Group provides small business support for entities throughout northern Arizona.
Getting Started
Starting and operating a small business can be exciting. Having the right legal building blocks in place is fundamental to growing your business. Having trusted counsel who understands business law can help you protect your rights as a business owner, limit liability, establish and implement standards, and mitigate and resolve disputes.
What is Business Law?
Regulations and Compliance
Businesses in Arizona must comply with applicable regulations pertaining to their Limited Liability Company or Corporation. In addition, as of January 1, 2024, certain businesses will have to comply with the Corporate Transparency Act (“CTA”). The CTA requires some businesses to disclose identifying information about those who formed, own, or control the business.
Intellectual Property
You’ve worked hard to create the product or service that is the core of your small business and you’ll want to protect that knowledge. Intellectual Property Law (“IP”) is an area of law that covers intangible property. When we think about IP, we often think about patents, trademarks, copyright and trade secrets.
Employment & Independent Contractors
As a business owner, you’ll need to have a basic understanding of labor and employment law, which compose the general set of rules that apply to businesses with employees. Labor and employment laws establish employer and employee rights and responsibilities and include both federal and state laws such as the Fair Labor Standards Act, Equal Opportunity Laws, Workers’ Compensation, Family and Medical Leave Act, Occupational Safety and Health Act (“OSHA”), Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Equal Pay Act.
Management & Contracts
A well-run business has solid contracts at its core that clearly define the rights and responsibilities of the business and its clients, and address liability before it is an issue. Any business, big or small, will quickly find the need to review and enter into contracts, including, for example, employment contracts, commercial leases, and service agreements. Once contracts are in place it is important to abide by their terms and update as necessary.
Business Foundation, Buying & Selling
When considering the purchase of a business, due diligence will help prospective buyers gather critical information about the business’s background, operations, financials and management. Planning for the eventual sale or transfer of your business can drive development and implementation of profitable processes from the beginning. Starting your business may involve creation of articles of incorporation, drafting of by-laws, and an operating agreement.
What We Offer
We make the business law process as smooth as possible.
MJ Vuinovich and Rose Winkeler help entrepreneurs and business owners understand why the law is important and how it fits into the context of their business needs. We guide clients at a pace that works for their business needs and provide support in the following areas:
- Governance
- Bylaws
- Operating Agreements
- Contracts
- Letters of Intent
- Non-Disclosure Agreements
- Compliance and training; risk management
- Dispute resolution
- Confidentiality agreements
- Employee agreements
- Buy-Sell agreements
- Negotiations
- NGO formation and support
Getting Started
It’s easier than you think.
1. Call the office to schedule a consultation to meet with our business law attorneys
2. Review your legal rights and obligations and understand the process options available to you
3. Determine your best next steps for how to proceed
Questions about business law in Arizona
Business Law can feel intimidating. We have answers to common questions that may help put your mind at ease.
Arizona has business-friendly tax and economic laws that can help businesses get started and thrive.
- Sole proprietorship
- Partnership, Limited Liability Partnership, and Limited Partnership
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Corporations
Before selecting a business name, search the Arizona Corporate Commission database to make sure the name is available. Certain rules apply to what names can be used.
Depending what on entity you form, you may need to register with the Arizona Secretary of State or Arizona Corporation Commission.
Although Arizona does not require a general business license, your business may be required to have other licenses in place. For example, you may need a State Transaction Privilege (Sales) Tax (TPT) License, local licenses or permits issued by the City or County, or regulatory or special licenses, which are required for certain professions.
Arizona mandates that employers with one employee (part or full time) must have workers’ compensation insurance for their employees. Depending on your business, you may have other insurance requirements. Even if not mandatory, insurance is often a cost-effective way to protect your business against common liabilities. Talk to an insurance agent early in the business development process in order to identify policies to support and protect your business.
