Starting a business is an exciting but complex process. From choosing the right structure to drafting contracts, the legal landscape can quickly become overwhelming.

Simon Paschal, a boutique law firm focusing on business and employment law, is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs protect their interests and navigate the intricate legal challenges that arise as they build and grow their businesses.

What is business law, and why is it important?

Business law focuses on the legal aspects of running a company, with a particular emphasis on contracts, liability and compliance.

“Business law is about establishing the right legal framework for your company,” co-owner and lawyer Paul Simon said. “This includes creating the legal entity—whether it's an LLC, corporation or another structure—and ensuring all the contracts and legal documents are in place to protect your interests.”

One of the key functions of business law is asset protection. Without the right structure, business owners risk exposing their personal assets to lawsuits.

“Establishing a legal structure is important because if you're doing business without an entity, you're exposing all of your assets to potential seizure,” Simon said.

When should entrepreneurs reach out to a lawyer?

Timing is critical when it comes to legal help. Simon recommends that entrepreneurs involve a lawyer early in the process, ideally when they are first conceptualizing their business idea.

“It’s important to think about your business structure from the very beginning. Once you know your business idea is viable, that’s the right time to set up the legal framework,” Simon said.

However, if entrepreneurs are unsure about pursuing the business idea, Simon suggests waiting until they are more certain. But once the decision is made to move forward, partnering with a lawyer ensures that the legal aspects are properly handled from day one.

The cost of cutting legal corners

Although online legal platforms, such as LegalZoom, may seem like an inexpensive option, Simon cautions against handling business law without professional guidance.

“These platforms can be extremely helpful, but the law can be difficult to navigate if you are not a professional,” Simon said. “If you don’t understand what you’re doing, you could miss small key details that leave you vulnerable down the road.”

Simon compared the need for legal documents to car maintenance: “Skipping regular maintenance on your car may save you money upfront, but eventually, it will cost you far more when your engine breaks down. The same is true with business law—cutting corners now can lead to costly legal battles in the future.”

Ongoing legal support for growing businesses

As businesses expand, they encounter new legal challenges, such as contracts with business partners, compliance with labor laws or handling intellectual property issues. Having the right legal support ensures you're always a step ahead.

“We work with our clients to help them navigate these evolving challenges—whether it's drafting clear, enforceable contracts, ensuring compliance with ever-changing regulations or addressing any legal disputes that arise,” Simon said. “At Simon Paschal, we’re there to help businesses stay on track and minimize risk as they grow.”

Simon Paschal’s expertise helps entrepreneurs and business owners avoid the legal missteps that can come with expansion.

Some of the business law services Simon Paschal provides includes:
  • Master Service Agreements
  • Demand Letters
  • Corporate Formation
  • Buy-Sell Agreements
  • Litigation
  • Registered Agent
Learn more

Simon Paschal offers a newsletter anyone can sign up for, providing updates on key federal, state and local laws. Clients receive exclusive content, including deeper insights into the legal issues affecting businesses.

For more information or to get in touch with the firm, potential clients can visit their website or reach out via email or phone for a consultation.

The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.