Dallas Business Formations Attorneys Positioning Entrepreneurs For Success
A great idea and a carefully designed business plan are two key elements to getting started. Another element that is equally important is choosing the right business entity to establish.
At the law firm of Palmer Lehman Sandberg, PLLC, our attorneys apply decades of experience to help entrepreneurs choose the ideal entity structures for their needs. Our mission is to get our clients started on the path to success, so we take great care when providing legal counsel.
Our team will take the time to learn about your specific business, including the products or services you offer, and provide clear guidance that is aligned with your objectives.
Choosing The Right Business Entity With The Help Of A Startup Lawyer
During the process of business formation, you will need to select the appropriate business entity based on business size, ownership structure, tax considerations and the need for personal liability protection, among many other factors. Some common business entities include:
- Corporations
- Limited liability companies (LLCs)
- Limited liability partnerships (LLPs)
- Limited partnerships (LPs)
- Professional corporations (PCs)
- Professional associations (PAs)
- Professional limited liability companies (PLLCs)
Our attorneys can guide you through this process, helping you understand the pros and cons of each option.
Comprehensive Legal Services To Get Your Business Up And Running
Business entity formation is only the first step in starting a business. Others include filing tax forms, creating partnership agreements, stockholder and member agreements, employment contracts and more. We can offer guidance covering all aspects of business organization.
Beyond formation, our lawyers are available to assist with all business law matters. We help businesses of all sizes with everything from contract issues to business litigation.
FAQs: Texas Business Formation
Starting a business in Texas requires entrepreneurs to make several important decisions, from choosing the right entity type to ensuring compliance with state regulations. Below, our attorneys answer common questions about business formation to help you navigate the process effectively.
How are Texas LLCs and corporations different?
An LLC (Limited Liability Company) and a corporation both provide liability protection, but they differ in taxation, management structure and formalities.
LLCs offer pass-through taxation, meaning profits and losses are reported on the owners’ personal tax returns, which helps in avoiding corporate taxes. In contrast, corporations may be taxed at both the corporate and shareholder levels unless they elect S-corp status.
Additionally, LLCs have flexible management, allowing members to run the business without strict formalities, whereas corporations require a board of directors, shareholder meetings and bylaws. Another difference is that corporations can issue multiple classes of stock, making them more suitable for businesses seeking outside investment.
How can I register my business name in Dallas, Texas?
Before you attempt to register a business name in Dallas, you must first check its availability. Search the Texas Secretary of State’s website to ensure the name is not already in use by another business.
If you are operating under a name different from your legal business entity, you must file an Assumed Name Certificate (DBA) with the Dallas County Clerk’s Office. The application can be completed online or in person, and requires a government-issued ID. If your business is structured as an LLC or corporation, you must register the name with the Texas Secretary of State.
What permits and licenses are mandated for a Texas startup?
The licenses and permits required for a Texas startup depend on the industry and business location. Some common requirements include:
- Sales tax permit: Required for businesses selling taxable goods or services, obtained through the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
- Professional licenses: Certain professions, such as law, medicine and real estate, require state-issued licenses
- Building and zoning permits: Necessary for businesses operating in physical locations, helping ensure compliance with local regulations
- Health permits: Required for food-related businesses, issued by local health departments
- Employer Identification Number (EIN): Issued by the IRS for tax purposes
- Federal licenses: Some industries, such as transportation and broadcasting, require federal permits
Meeting these requirements helps to ensure your business operates legally in the state of Texas and prevents potential penalties. Consulting with a business attorney can help clarify specific licensing needs based on your chosen industry and business location.
Learn More About Our Commitment To Providing Optimal Business Solutions
Call us at 214-242-6444 or reach us by email to schedule an appointment at our Dallas office. We offer convenient office hours, flexible appointment times and reasonable fees. Visa, Mastercard and Discover are accepted.