What Does a Business Attorney Actually Do? (And When Your Business Needs One)

What Is a Business Attorney?

A business attorney is a legal professional who helps entrepreneurs and companies navigate legal issues related to business operations, structure, growth, and risk. But they’re more than contract drafters — they’re strategic advisors.

While many assume they only need a lawyer in emergencies, the truth is that a business attorney provides the most value when involved early — and consistently.

At Empire Business Law, we take a long-term approach to client success. Our role isn’t just handling legal paperwork; it’s making sure you’re protected, compliant, and prepared at every stage of growth.

The Core Functions of a Business Attorney

Let’s look at what business attorneys actually do. If you're thinking “I’m not sure what kind of legal support I need,” this list is a good place to start.

1. Business Formation and Structure

When starting a business, choosing the right legal structure isn’t just a tax question — it affects liability, scalability, and funding options.

We help with:

• Choosing between LLC, S-Corp, C-Corp, or partnerships
• Drafting customized operating agreements or bylaws
• Filing formation documents with the state
• Ensuring tax and liability considerations are fully addressed

A poorly chosen structure can create tax issues, limit investment, or expose you to unnecessary liability. At Empire Business Law, we help founders build the right foundation from day one.

2. Contracts: Drafting, Reviewing, and Negotiating

Every business relies on contracts — with clients, employees, vendors, partners, and investors. But not all contracts are created equal. Vague or template-based agreements leave your business vulnerable.

We handle:

• Employment and contractor agreements
• Service-level agreements (SLAs)
• Partnership and shareholder agreements
• Client and vendor contracts
• Lease and franchise agreements

Our team ensures contracts are enforceable, aligned with your goals, and protective of your interests. Before you sign something that could bind your business for years, let Empire Business Law take a look.

3. Intellectual Property and Brand Protection

Your brand, content, product names, and proprietary systems are valuable assets — and they need protection.

Business attorneys help with:

• Trademark registration and enforcement
• Copyrights and licensing
• IP strategy and audits
• Drafting NDAs and non-compete clauses

Don’t assume your business name is protected just because you’ve secured the domain or Instagram handle. Empire Business Law helps you protect what makes your business unique — legally and proactively.

4. Mergers, Acquisitions, and Business Sales

Thinking about buying or selling a business? Even if the deal seems straightforward, the legal process is anything but.

We help clients:

• Prepare for due diligence
• Draft and negotiate purchase agreements
• Review business valuations and liabilities
• Structure the deal for tax and legal efficiency

Whether you're planning an acquisition or preparing to exit, Empire Business Law provides deal support that prevents surprises and secures your position.

5. Employment Law and HR Legal Guidance

From onboarding to termination, employment law is one of the most regulated areas in business. Mistakes here can result in costly lawsuits or government penalties.

We help businesses:

• Draft employment agreements, handbooks, and policies
• Comply with wage and hour laws
• Mitigate wrongful termination and discrimination risks
• Navigate employee disputes before they escalate

Whether you have one employee or fifty, Empire Business Law ensures your HR practices are compliant and defensible.

6. Corporate Governance and Compliance

Even established businesses run into trouble if they ignore compliance. A business attorney ensures your company operates legally and according to state and federal guidelines.

Services include:

• Corporate minutes and resolutions
• Regulatory compliance checks
• Business license and permit guidance
• Internal controls and document retention policies

Our legal support helps you avoid government fines and strengthens your company’s credibility in the eyes of lenders, investors, and partners.

7. General Counsel Services

Many companies need consistent legal support — but don’t want to hire a full-time in-house attorney. That’s where outsourced general counsel comes in.

At Empire Business Law, we act as your legal department — without the overhead. You get:

• Ongoing access to legal guidance
• Regular contract and compliance reviews
• Strategic legal input for growth decisions
• Flat-rate billing with no surprise fees

Whether you’re facing a legal issue or planning for your next stage of growth, we’re on call when you need us.

When Should You Hire a Business Attorney?

Let’s make it simple: The best time to hire a business attorney is before you need one.

Here are scenarios where legal support isn’t just helpful — it’s critical:

• You’re launching a business or new division
• You’re negotiating a high-value contract
• You’re preparing to hire employees
• You’re seeking investors or raising capital
• You’re protecting a brand, idea, or system
• You’re facing a dispute, audit, or legal claim
• You’re planning to sell or merge your business

If any of these sound familiar, reach out to Empire Business Law for a free consultation. We’ll help you assess what you need and how to move forward.

What If You’re a Small Business?

Small businesses sometimes assume legal counsel is only for corporations or startups with funding. That couldn’t be further from the truth.

In fact, smaller companies often face more risk — because they’re less equipped to absorb costly mistakes. Legal help can:

• Prevent lawsuits and disputes
• Create strong, scalable contracts
• Protect your personal assets
• Help you grow responsibly

At Empire Business Law, we offer affordable flat-rate services designed for founders, solopreneurs, and local business owners.

FAQs About Working With a Business Attorney

1. Do I need a business attorney if I already have an accountant?

Accountants and attorneys serve different (but complementary) roles. Accountants focus on financial reporting and taxes. Business attorneys handle legal documents, compliance, risk, and protection.

2. Can I hire a business attorney remotely?

Yes. We work with clients in California, New Jersey, and beyond via phone, video, and secure document portals. Remote doesn’t mean less effective — it means more accessible.

3. What does it cost?

Empire Business Law uses flat-rate pricing so you know what you're paying upfront — no hourly surprises.

4. Should I hire a business attorney to start an LLC?

Yes — especially if you're planning to grow, bring on partners, or need IP or contract protection. DIY formations often miss crucial legal protections.

Why Choose Empire Business Law?

There are plenty of law firms out there. So why choose us?

Here’s what makes Empire Business Law different:

• Business-first mindset: We focus on practical, strategic advice that drives business growth.
• Flat-rate pricing: No inflated hourly billing or vague invoices.
• Experienced legal team: We've helped hundreds of startups and growing companies across industries.
• Clear communication: You get legal advice in plain English — not legalese.
• Flexible support: Offices in California and New Jersey, with remote services nationwide.

Our founder, Attorney Daniel Lopez, has built a team trusted by entrepreneurs for one reason — we get results, not red tape.

Final Thoughts: Legal Guidance That Moves at the Speed of Business

You don’t need to be a legal expert — you just need the right legal partner. A business attorney helps you make smarter decisions, avoid unnecessary risks, and position your company for sustainable growth.

At Empire Business Law, we combine deep legal knowledge with an understanding of how businesses actually operate. We’re here to help you protect what you’re building — and scale it, safely.

Book your free consultation today and let us be the business attorney your company deserves.