Established Rolla Law Firm Provides Trustworthy Corporate Law Services

Reliable advice for small to large companies at every stage of development

Incorporation delivers numerous advantages for businesses of all sizes, from mom-and-pop shops to global conglomerates. But those advantages come with strings attached: corporations must comply with a wide range of state and federal regulations or face civil penalties and possible criminal charges. To keep your business in compliance and running smoothly, you need trustworthy legal advice from an established source. At Williams, Robinson, Rigler & Buschjost, P.C. in Rolla, our corporate lawyers serve all of South-Central Missouri and draw on more than 100 years of combined legal experience. We are ready with pertinent advice at every stage of your company’s development, starting with its formation. We help you get your business enterprise started on the right foot and assist you with managing growth and whatever challenges come your way during the life of your company.

Skilled assistance with corporate formation in Missouri

Incorporation is a vital step that protects the business owner from personal liability for company debts and court judgments. When you incorporate, you create an entity that operates as a fictitious person, holding assets and assuming obligations. If the business fails, the entity is solely responsible; the owner and investors are only liable to the extent of their investment in the company. A reputable firm that focuses on business law can capably guide you through the formation process.

Corporations started or operating in Missouri must comply with state law. Rules vary for general business corporations, close corporations and foreign corporations. If you are forming a business, you have several types of entities to choose from, including:

• General Missouri business corporation — This standard form of corporation gives owners and officers protection from personal liability for the company’s obligations and allows owners to raise capital through the sale of shares.
• Nonprofit corporation — Properly formed companies that provide a public benefit or a mutual benefit are eligible for tax-exempt status under section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code. Obtaining tax-exempt status is a separate process from state registration.
• Professional corporation — Persons licensed to practice certain professions are eligible to be shareholders in this type of entity, including accountants, architects, engineers, attorneys, podiatrists, chiropractors, dentists, optometrists, physicians, surgeons, medical and osteopathic doctors, psychologists, veterinarians, registered nurses, real estate salespersons, and physical therapists.
• Sole proprietorship/general partnership — These types of businesses can be formed without a state filing, but they provide no protection against personal liability for the company’s obligations.
• Limited partnerships — These entities provide some liability protection from the limited partners.
• Limited liability company — This simple form of incorporation is the most popular type of entity for small businesses throughout the United States. The entity provides liability protection for the owner and members.

Our corporate lawyers can help you choose the best entity for your situation. We assist with the filing and subsequent legal requirements, which can include licensing, permitting, ownership agreements, company bylaws, tax planning and other necessary steps.

Capable management of various corporate issues

Our corporate lawyers perform general counsel duties for many companies that do not have in-house legal departments. As such, we handle a wide variety of matters, including:

• Corporate governance — We provide comprehensive advice to company officers to help the company stay in compliance with state and federal regulations and to ensure that officers follow best practices for governance.
• Shareholder and partner disputes — We manage various conflicts that can arise between owners, managers and investors, such as alleged breaches of fiduciary duty, business oppression, and buy-sell agreement violations. We thoroughly investigate the facts, make knowledgeable recommendations and represent company interests in any litigation.
• Mergers, acquisitions and divestitures — We work closely with your company’s development officer to evaluate and implement mergers and acquisitions. Our due diligence helps to ensure that you thoroughly understand the costs and benefits of such transactions. We structure deals with an eye toward tax implications to maximize value. If your company is holding unproductive assets, we can assist with divestitures so you can reallocate resources for greater advantage.

Whether you are preparing for growth, looking to downsize or revising your corporate vision, our corporate lawyers can provide the trustworthy guidance and indispensable advice to help you achieve success.

For capable corporate law services in Rolla, Missouri, call us today

Williams, Robinson, Rigler & Buschjost, P.C. in Rolla provides highly professional corporate law services throughout South-Central Missouri. If you are starting a company or growing your business, we can provide the legal guidance you need to succeed. To schedule an appointment, call 573-458-5200 or contact us online.