Corporate Law

A corporation is a separate legal entity created by state law, distinct from its owners. The corporation continues to exist unless it ends for several reasons, such as bankruptcy or if it becomes legally dissolved. A corporation can also end if the state revokes its charter. The role of a corporation is to shield its shareholders from being held personally responsible for the corporation’s debts. To do that, it must follow specific rules and formalities to remain a separate legal entity. By fully understanding the formation process and the ongoing legal requirements under Fresno business law, a corporation can last for decades and help its owners achieve their own financial goals.

A corporate lawyer deals with the formation of corporations, creditors, and with mergers and acquisitions. The corporate lawyer accomplishes this by understanding various types of business entities, the laws that govern them, and the nuances of what makes each one different.

Examples of their work include:

Forming a corporation is separate from closing on the purchase of property owned by the corporation. A formation attorney will fill out the articles of incorporation, file them with the state and help incorporate a professional business entity. This process is essential for creating a “corporate veil” that will shield a corporation’s owners from personal liability.

A contract is a legally enforceable agreement between two or more parties. The corporate lawyer drafts and negotiates these agreements to help protect the owner’s interest and maximize shareholder value.

A transaction is an act of buying or selling goods, services, or property between two or more parties. This can be done through a purchase or sale agreement, lease agreements, and other structures that help protect the owner’s interest in their corporation. A corporate lawyer can also help ensure the corporation complies with all state and local laws during these transactions.

A creditor is a party who owes another party money or property, which they must return at some point or risk being sued for payment. The creditor and the debtor enter into a legally sound agreement, called a promissory note, which helps protect the creditor from the debtor filing for bankruptcy. A corporate lawyer can assist with negotiating promissory notes between creditors and debtors.

A franchise is a relationship between an individual or business and a corporation where the individual or business agrees to operate under the corporation’s name and pay a fee. The franchisee and franchisor must enter into a legally sound contract that helps protect the interests of both parties. With the help of a corporate lawyer, the franchisee and franchisor can ensure both parties are protected under the law.

Mergers and acquisitions are two methods corporations use to expand their market share or business. The corporate lawyer helps facilitate these transactions to help ensure the interests of all parties are protected.

Business attorneys and corporate attorneys serve very different purposes that laypeople often blur.

The work of a business attorney includes:

The work of a corporate attorney includes:

These are just a few examples. Business lawyers and corporate lawyers frequently form their own practices to pursue the specific areas of law that interest them. However, law firms also often hire them, knowing that these lawyers will be working on business-related cases.

An experienced attorney with a history of working in the corporate law field will be able to help you form your corporation. They will also be familiar with the rules associated with forming your corporation. If you are working in a specific industry, like medical or technology, it is important to find an attorney who understands your industry.

Qualities to look for in a corporate lawyer include:

These are just a few of the many qualities you should look for when hiring a corporate lawyer. Striking the right balance of skills, knowledge, and personality is important when working with your corporate lawyer to protect your interests.

A solid business foundation is the key to success for any new business. With a team of experienced attorneys, you will have a resource for legal advice that can protect your business interests and help you plan for the future. A Fresno corporate lawyer can help your business with various legal matters, including the formation process, contract negotiation, and transactions. They can also help protect your interests in the event of a lawsuit or creditor claim. By working with an experienced Fresno corporate lawyer, you can rest assured that your corporation is in good hands.

If you are interested in learning more about the legal services that a Fresno corporation lawyer can provide for your business, contact the Fresno business law experts at Fishman, Larsen, and Callister. Our corporate lawyers are experienced in providing legal counsel to businesses. We can help you understand your legal rights and give you the best possible chance to protect and extend your corporate financial future.