Business Law
Essential business law legal advice for businesses new and old
Running your own business can be extremely satisfying and allow you to craft an enterprise however you see fit, but it is also very time-consuming and complicated. One of the most important aspects of running a business is ensuring that you keep up to date with the relevant legislation and stay on the right side of the law.
Starting a business
Laying the right foundation for your business is extremely important, and you should strive to start as you mean to go on. One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether you want to operate as a sole trader, with few restrictions on your business but total liability should things go wrong, work within a partnership, which functions similarly to sole trading but places responsibility on everyone involved, or formalise your business as a limited company, meaning you will need to register your business and abide by certain restrictions but will also find yourself with greater protection should things go wrong.
You will also need to make sure you choose an appropriate name, submitting it to the Companies House Register if necessary, and make yourself aware of any laws relevant to your industry. You may also have to establish the terms under which you trade with others.
Looking after your employees
If your business is a success, you may end up taking on employees to aid you in its operation, but it’s vital to bear in mind that you are responsible for their welfare and need to ensure that you abide by the relevant legislation. Health and safety concerns, fairness in your dealings with them and paying appropriate amounts are all aspects of business you will need to consider.
Tax
You are responsible for ensuring that your business pays the appropriate amount of tax, and, with your livelihood often hinging on it, it’s vital that you understand what you owe, or hire someone who does.
If you need assistance with tax or any other aspect of running a business, our Find a Solicitor service can help you find the specialist lawyer you need.
The essentials of business law
Business contracts
Contracts are central to the operation of any business, and as a company director it's imperative to ensure that everything is shipshape.
Buying and selling a business
Either acquiring another business or selling one on can be a protracted legal process. Our legal advice gives you the lowdown.
Commercial disputes and litigation
Often legal action is required when a dispute arises in the commercial arena. These can be between business and their customers, employees or competing companies.
Our guide to starting up a business
To give your brainchild the best chance of becoming a successful business you will have to ensure you do all the right groundwork before you get going. Read our guide.
Business premises and commercial property
All businesses need a place in which to base their operations. Find out about the laws governing commercial property and how they affect you.