As small business owners themselves, Attorneys Anne Rice and Kristen Gardiner know the myriad of issues that can crop up on a daily basis.  They are here to assist you so that you can do what you do best, run your business.

If you are thinking about starting a business, or if you are a sole proprietor and want to bring in a business partner, you may want to form a business entity to operate your business.  The most popular form of business entity is the Limited Liability Company (LLC).  The LLC provides protection to the small business owner’s personal assets while affording pass-through taxation to its members – avoiding the double taxation effect of corporate status.  You, as the business owner, create the terms of the business operation and management.  These terms are incorporated into an Operating Agreement.  This Operating Agreement may be amended as the business grows and/or membership of the organization changes.  In cooperation with your tax advisor, Rice Law Office can help you decide if an LLC is the right vehicle for you to conduct your business.   We can assist you in preparing the necessary tax forms, the Certificate of Formation, Operating Agreement and any amendments or resolutions you may need in order to get your business going.

After your business is formed, Attorney Anne Rice can provide on-going expert advice regarding the day-to-day running of your business and employee issues, such as hiring and training employees, preparing, reviewing and revising employee handbooks, properly maintaining personnel files, complying with posting requirements and regulations of the Department of Labor (DOL) and Department of Employment Security (DES).  If necessary, we’re here to represent you in workers’ compensation, unemployment, Human Rights Commission or Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) matters.  We also provide advice regarding contracts, non-compete agreements, restricted covenants, confidentiality and privacy issues, termination, layoff and severance.

If you already have a general business attorney and simply need expert advice in one of our areas of practice, we will be happy to work with your current counsel on a particular project or matter and return you to continue working with your general counsel after the matter has concluded.