Prattville Business Law Attorneys

Comprehensive Legal Support for Business Owners

Our firm assists business owners throughout every stage of the process, including:

Starting a Business

Starting a business is an exciting step, but it also comes with important legal responsibilities to avoid liability and protect your assets. We can help you choose the right business structure, prepare and file formation documents, and assist with obtaining your EIN, business licenses, insurance, and other essential items so your business starts strong and stays compliant.

Growing Your Business

As your business evolves, your legal needs can also change. We assist business owners with contract drafting and review, vendor agreements, and employment policies that promote compliance and minimize risk. We also provide practical advice on best practices, human resources compliance, and strategic decision-making to support future growth and success.

Closing or Transitioning Your Business

When it’s time to move on to a new opportunity, closing or transferring your business must be done carefully to avoid future legal or financial complications. Our attorneys can help you properly dissolve your business, handle required filings, and resolve outstanding obligations so you can step away with peace of mind.

What Type of Business Should I Form?

When starting a company, choosing the right business structure is one of the most important legal and financial decisions you will make. There are several types of business entities available with varying levels of liability protection, tax treatment, and management flexibility. These include: 

• Limited Liability Company (LLC). This is a popular structure for small and mid-sized businesses due to flexibility and limited personal liability. Owners of "members" are generally protected from business debts and lawsuits, and income can be taxed as a pass-through entity or as a corporation. 
• Corporation (Inc. or S-Corp). Corporations provide the strongest personal liability protection, but are more complex to manage. They require formalities like shareholder meetings, corporate bylaws, and detailed recordkeeping. Many business owners choose an S-Corporation for tax advantages, while larger or growing businesses may benefit from a C-Corporation structure.
• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP). LLPs are widely used by professional service providers, such as lawyers, accountants, and architects, who want to limit personal liability while maintaining a partnership structure. While partners share profits, they generally aren’t liable for the negligence or debts of other partners.
• Nonprofit Corporation. Nonprofits are formed for charitable, educational, or religious purposes and can qualify for tax-exempt status under federal and state law. Establishing and maintaining a nonprofit requires detailed filings and ongoing compliance with both Alabama and IRS regulations.

Understanding the differences between these entities is key to starting off your business on the right foot. We can assess your specific situation and recommend the best path forward for protecting your personal assets, minimizing tax burdens, and setting up your business for success.

What Happens if My Business Is Sued?

If your business is sued, the process can feel overwhelming. Having experienced legal guidance is paramount to safeguarding your rights and reputation. A lawsuit typically begins when the plaintiff files a complaint, followed by discovery, negotiations, motions, and a potential trial if negotiations fail. 

At McDowell Faulk & Shirley, we can review the claims, evaluate your legal options, and develop a strategic response tailored to your goals. From filing motions to representing you in court, our attorneys can guide you through every step of the litigation process and work toward a resolution that supports your business’s growth and success.

Can You Represent Me in Corporate Litigation?

Absolutely. Our firm represents all types of businesses in corporate litigation. We combine extensive trial experience and an in-depth knowledge of business law to advocate effectively for our clients’ interests in a variety of legal matters, such as disputes involving contracts, partnerships, shareholder or member conflicts, and business torts. Our favorable trial outcomes underscore our proven competence in and out of the courtroom. 

Can a Lawyer Help Transfer Business Ownership or Shares?

Transferring business ownership or shares can be legally complex. Whether it’s drafting buy-sell agreements, shareholder agreements, or membership interest transfers for LLCs, corporations, or partnerships, our attorneys can guide you through the process to minimize risk and maintain compliance with state laws, tax requirements, and contractual obligations to partners, investors, or co-owners. We also provide guidance on estate planning or succession planning if the transfer is part of a broader strategy.